Pesto the King Penguin Chick Gains Global Fanbase, Including Katy Perry

Pesto, a nine-month-old king penguin chick in Australia, has become a global sensation, attracting hundreds of visitors to Sea Life Melbourne. Among his admirers is pop star Katy Perry, who expressed her desire to meet him while in Melbourne. Pesto is the largest king penguin chick the aquarium has ever seen.

Pesto, a nine-month-old king penguin chick, has captured the hearts of hundreds of visitors at Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium. The chocolate-brown, fluffy bird has now also attracted the attention of U.S. pop star Katy Perry, who is in Melbourne to perform at the Australian Football League Grand Final.

Weighing 23.5 kg, Pesto is the largest king penguin chick the aquarium has ever had. Michaela Smale, who has been caring for him since he hatched, explains that most of his weight comes from the brown fuzz that keeps him warm during winter, which he will lose as he develops adult feathers.

Pesto has gained global popularity with his videos racking up millions of likes on TikTok, and a recent gender reveal event generating buzz on social media. His parents, Tango and Hudson, along with the aquarium’s keepers, help take care of him, feeding him 25 fish a day.