Penguins at Paradise Park are once again enjoying Cornish sardines, thanks to a new local sourcing initiative that replaced imported fish. The change came about after a chance conversation at the wildlife attraction, highlighting the benefits of supporting local catches and reducing transportation distances.
"When I heard the penguins loved sardines but that the park thought they couldn't get them, I thought: 'Well, I might be able to help with that,'" said one individual involved in the initiative. Paradise Park curator David Woolcock expressed satisfaction with the new arrangement, noting that the penguins "absolutely love them." He added that it is "a great example of how a simple conversation can lead to a really positive change."
The move also benefits the local fishing community. Gus Caslake, Seafish industry engagement manager for South West England and chair of the Cornish Sardine Management Association, stated that this partnership "is a brilliant example of a local catch staying local, reducing the need to transport fish long distances and showcasing the quality of the Cornish sardine."
The park has also introduced a new information board near the penguin pool, developed in collaboration with Cornish sardine fishermen, to educate visitors about the birds' diet. Among the beneficiaries of the local sardines is Spneb, a 38-year-old Humboldt penguin believed to be the world's oldest, who recently celebrated her birthday with a meal of her favorite fish.
