Overview
- An estimated 250–300 people rallied outside the Westminster attraction as Chris Packham, Feargal Sharkey, Megan McCubbin and Dale Vince backed the Free The Fifteen campaign.
- Campaigners allege the gentoo penguins are kept in a windowless basement without daylight or fresh air, with a pool about six to seven feet deep, and Born Free says some have never seen the sky.
- Sea Life London states the enclosure was designed with specialist veterinary advice, provides a balanced mix of land and water, and is subject to regular inspections under zoo licensing rules.
- A petition calling for the penguins to be relocated has surpassed 15,000 signatures, expanding pressure that began with a campaign launched in January 2024.
- Parliamentary attention includes an early day motion urging the birds’ release, as campaigners propose relocations to outdoor enclosures at facilities such as Edinburgh or London Zoos.