Pesto the Penguin Celebrates First Birthday as a Global Social Media Star

The king penguin from Melbourne Aquarium marked the milestone with a fish cake, bubbles, and his sleek new black-and-white feathers.

Pesto, a king penguin from Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium, became a social media sensation due to his unusually large size as a chick.
Born on January 30, 2024, Pesto weighed an impressive 22.5 kilograms at just nine months old, towering over his peers at 90 centimeters.
The aquarium celebrated Pesto's first birthday with a fish-filled gelatin cake, bubble playtime, and a swim, showcasing his growth into a strong swimmer.
Pesto underwent a dramatic transformation during his first year, shedding his fluffy brown feathers for the sleek black-and-white plumage typical of adult king penguins.
The penguin's fame attracted widespread attention, including a visit from pop star Katy Perry, further cementing his status as a global icon.