Edinburgh Zoo welcomes 15 tiny penguin chicks including five endangered Northern rockhoppers

The first penguin chicks of the breeding season have hatched at Edinburgh Zoo.

The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) has welcomed five endangered Northern rockhopper chicks and ten gentoo chicks so far.

Keepers at the wildlife conservation charity shared the first images of the tiny penguins and are hopeful more will follow in the coming weeks.

Michael Livingstone, senior animal keeper at Edinburgh Zoo, said this year’s breeding season is “particularly exciting” as they welcomed five Northern rockhopper chicks, which is the most they have ever had.

Northern rockhopper chick at Edinburgh Zoo. Supplied

“The species is endangered in the wild due to climate change, changes in marine ecosystems and overfishing, so being able to contribute to the breeding programme, which ensures a healthy and genetically diverse population is zoos, is wonderful,” he said.

The first 30 days are critical and the charity’s expert keepers will keep a close eye on the young chicks to ensure they are gaining weight and developing healthily.

Among the first to become parents this year are gentoo pair Muffin and Mittens who welcomed twins, and Northern rockhopper pair Wesley and Penny.

Keen visitors will be able to spot the chicks being cared for by their parents at Edinburgh Zoo’s Penguins Rock.