A famous king penguin at Edinburgh Zoo has become the highest-ranking animal of his kind in the world.
Sir Nils Olav, who was already a Brigadier, now also holds the title of Major General Sir Nils Olav III, Baron of the Bouvet Islands and official mascot of His Majesty the King’s Guard of Norway.
It comes after His Majesty the King’s Guard Band and Drill Team, of Norway, visited the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s (RZSS) zoo on Monday.
Following a carefully choreographed parade, Sir Nils was awarded his new badge of honour.
Monday’s ceremony was attended by over 160 uniformed soldiers of the Norwegian Guardsmen, who are taking part in this year’s Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
RZSS“The tradition of sending Nils Olav and his family fish, Christmas cards and visiting him during the unit’s participation at the Tattoo have been an important part of the Battalion’s history,” said Norwegian staff sergeant Fredrik Gresseth.
“His promotion this August, for good conduct and for being a superb example for the rest of the penguins at the Edinburgh Zoo, is a milestone in his career as mascot for the guard.”
The regal, black, white and yellow bird is the mascot of the King of Norway’s Guard, and his story dates back as far as 1972 – when he was adopted by the then-King of Norway, King Olav.
Jason Barrett, chief operating officer at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, said: “The theme for The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo this year is Stories and what better connection to our show than the story of Sir Nils Olav and his rise through the ranks.
STV News“His Majesty’s Kings Guard of Norway bring a rich history, honour, and tradition to our cast and have been a fan favourite for years.
“Having acts like the Kings Guard showcases the cross-cultural component found within the Tattoo and is what makes it so unique among entertainment offerings.
“On behalf of the entire cast and crew of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, I am delighted to congratulate Sir Nils Olav III on his promotion to Major General.”
David Field, chief executive of RZSS, said: “We are honoured to host His Majesty the King’s Guard Band and Drill Team of Norway once again as they return to Edinburgh Zoo to bestow this prestigious new title upon our king penguin, Sir Nils Olav.
“It is a very proud moment and represents the ongoing close collaboration between our two countries, Scotland, and Norway.”
Follow STV News on WhatsApp
Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
