Penguin nesting season begins at Chicago aquarium

Each spring, aquarium staff provide the birds with rocks, lavender stalks, and bits of hose — materials that mimic those found in their native South American habitats.

To further simulate seasonal changes, the aquarium adjusts the lighting cycle in the penguin habitat, encouraging natural behaviors.

Males often take the lead in building nests to woo potential mates or strengthen existing pair bonds, though nesting duties are sometimes shared with females.