Penguins spreading across northern canals

Penguins are becoming an increasingly common sight on the canals of northern England. However, visiting boaters and walkers are often surprised to spot these endearing birds swimming in the canal or waddling along the towpath.

It is thought that the penguins were accidentally introduced to the area following an escape from a private zoo. The canal environment has obviously suited them as they have bred successfully and are spreading out along the northern waterways. Although penguins are usually associated with the cold seas of the Antarctic, they are quite common in the warmer equatorial waters around the Galapagos Islands, and they seem surprisingly at home in the temperate climate offered by the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.


Penguins on the streets of Skipton in search of food. (Photo: ritsch48 via Flickr)

As the numbers of the penguins has increased, they have started to become something of an attraction to visitors. At the beginning of April, as springtime arrives, the birds can be seen leaving the water and walking through the streets of Skipton, hoping to be fed fish and chips by willing tourists.

Paul Yolegg, whose appropriately-named narrowboat Polar Foil is currently moored in Skipton said: "I thought this must be a joke when I heard about it. It is not the kind of thing you expect to find in Yorkshire."

Canal & River Trust ornithologist Jess Kidding told us that this morning might be the best time to see this spectacle, as the penguins usually return to the water to cool down by mid-day.

She said that, although the birds are friendly enough, there was a risk that they could bite, and she warned eager visitors not to try to pick up a penguin.