Escaped penguin captured after 2-week excursion of at least 30km

A penguin that escaped after being exhibited at an event on an island in central Japan has been recaptured about 30 kilometers (18 miles) away after two weeks in the wild, according to the event organizer.

The 6-year-old female African penguin, a species also known as the African penguin, was captured in good health on Sunday after escaping from the event on Himaka Island in Aichi Prefecture on Aug. 25.

Photo taken on Sept. 8, 2024 in Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture, shows an African penguin that was recaptured after escaping from an event on Aichi’s Himaka Island. (Photo courtesy of Gekidan Penters)(Kyodo)

Raised in captivity and never having swum in the open sea before his summer escapade, the penguin is believed to have travelled more than 40km along the western coast of the Chita Peninsula, according to Gekidan Penters, the event organiser.

“I am surprised by the penguin’s physical abilities and adaptability,” said staff member Ryosuke Imai, 29. “We are relieved that she has been found.”

The group, which offers lectures and events that allow people to interact with animals in Aichi Prefecture, held the exhibition on Himaka Island between July 20 and Aug. 25.

The penguin escaped after being placed in shallow water, surrounded by netting, while staff tried to keep it cool in the scorching sun. It apparently swam through a hole in its enclosure after being frightened.

One person reported seeing the animal about a week later near nearby Shino Island, but searches failed to locate it.

The bird was recaptured after being spotted near Shinmaiko Marine Park in Chita, Aichi Prefecture. It approached staff when called by name, the group said.

African penguins live on the coasts of South Africa and Namibia. This species feeds on fish such as anchovies and squid and can reach a length of about 70 centimeters.