We're Feeling Lucky

Lucky Seven at Ripley's Myrtle Beach

Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach is feeling EXTRA lucky as we celebrate the arrival of five additional African penguin chicks, bringing the total number hatched this year to an incredible lucky SEVEN . With the expert guidance and extraordinary efforts of our animal care team, we've exceeded the typical 15 - 50% egg-to-fledgling survival rate, resulting in SEVEN healthy balls of waddling fluff! While it is not uncommon for several African Penguin couples to produce eggs at the same time, this marks an exceptionally productive year at Ripley's Myrtle Beach. 

The chicks are happy, healthy, and meeting all of their developmental milestones. From hatching, to the shedding of their baby fluff, each chick has received around-the-clock care from their parents and the Ripley's animal care team. We thank our fellow colleagues in the industry who graciously offered their time and expertise as we supported this unprecedented number of African Penguin chicks. 

African Penguins are a critically endangered species. Currently, there are less than 8,000 mating pairs left in the wild, making this baby boom significant not just for Ripley's, but for the survival of the species as a whole. Join us as we welcome these chicks to the colony and stayed tuned to our socials to track their growth!

Meet Ripley's Class of 2026

Name: Vic
Hatch Date: 5/8/2026

Name: Chelle
Hatch Date: 5/11/2026

Name: Baby #3
Hatch Date: 6/18/2026

Name: Baby #4
Hatch Date: 6/22/2026

Name: Baby #5
Hatch Date: 7/11/2026

Name: Baby #6
Hatch Date: 7/14/2026

Name: Baby #7
Hatch Date: 7/30/2026

Saving Seabirds

Ripley’s Aquariums is proud to support the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), a dedicated nonprofit organization working to reverse the decline of seabird populations through rescue and rehabilitation efforts.

SANCCOB provides crucial care to an average of 2,500 injured, sick, and oiled seabirds each year, including the endangered African penguin. Their work is vital to preserving these remarkable birds and their habitats.

To contribute to SANCCOB’s important mission, Ripley’s Aquariums donates regularly from our penguin paintings. Fifty percent of all proceeds from these paintings go directly to SANCCOB’s conservation efforts, helping to fund their ongoing work and support their vital programs.

Join Us in Making a Difference

Education is at the heart of our conservation efforts. Through interactive exhibits, informative talks, and educational programs, we inspire visitors of all ages to appreciate and protect marine life. By fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges facing our oceans, we empower individuals to become stewards of conservation.

Explore the wonders of the ocean and experience our commitment to conservation firsthand at Ripley's Aquariums. Join us in preserving marine biodiversity and ensuring a thriving planet for future generations. Together, we can create a brighter future for our oceans.

Want to see our baby penguins in person?