Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year.  See you all in 2017,  Take care everyone.

Penguins at the Santo Inacio Zoo

Another favourite of ours were the Penguins, such adorable lively creatures. This will be my last post of photos taken at the Santo Inacio Zoo.

The African Penguin   Spheniscus demerus
 

They grow to a height of 60cm ( 2ft tall )
 

They are accustomed to living in warmer climates,...
 

but went in and out of the water all the time to cool off.
 

and loving it, as it was a really hot day.
 

This friendly one came right up to us.
 

Penguins spend several hrs a day preening their feathers to keep them well maintained, or they would not stay waterproof.
 

For extra protection, penguins spread oil on their feathers. The oil comes from a special gland, near their tail. The penguins tail is short and wedge shaped which helps it to maintain stability on land.
 

Both sexes look the same.
 

Many were banded on their flippers.
 

A close up of the friendly one.
 

A gate we saw near the zoo, which I have added for Good Fences.
 

 

SATURDAY'S CRITTERS

Zebras and an Owl at the Santo Inacio Zoo

The Zebras were a special favourite of ours. These two were enjoying a meal, whilst we were admiring the unique design on their beautiful coats.

Awe!!:)
 

The first time I saw a Zebra with ears in that position.
 

Hello!
 

One eye on me!
 

Still Curious!
 

Their markings, so different, but both so beautiful.
 

One of the gates at the zoo, for Good Fences.
 

A closer look at the lock.
 

The entrance to the reptile house but we didn't go inside this time.
 

Another restaurant area. photo taken early morning.
 

Don't you just love their mane, and those dazzling stripes.
 

The Snowy Owl
 

WILD BIRD WEDNESDAY
GOOD FENCES
SATURDAY'S CRITTERS
I'D-RATHER-B-BIRDIN Just click on the links to see birds and critters from around the world, and you won't be disappointed. Thank you to all our gracious hosts.