'Sweet new arrival' delights keepers

According to scientists, Gentoo penguins are one of the friendliest penguin breeds

A gentoo penguin chick has hatched at The Deep in Hull.

The chick hatched on 9 June weighing just 104g (3oz), which keepers said was a "healthy" weight.

Ben Jones, the attraction's director of husbandry and exhibition, described it as "very exciting news" and said staff were "delighted" with how well the chick is developing.

The chick, which has not yet been named, is currently being watched over by parents Nessie and Stan in its nest, but eagle-eyed visitors might be able to catch a glimpse over the next few weeks.

Keepers are delighted with the chick's progress

As is the norm with penguins, both parents are said to be pursuing active roles in feeds and taking turns on the nest.

Each day, the chick - described by staff as their "sweet new arrival" - has been gaining weight and staff said the it was already beginning to develop an "adorable lively personality".

The chick’s sex will not be confirmed until after its first moult, which usually occurs several months after hatching.

According to staff, feathers will be sent for a DNA check which will then determine the sex.

Visitors might be able to catch a glimpse of the penguin soon

This chick is a special sub species of Gentoo penguin known as Pygoscelis papua ellsworthi.

The Deep is part of the European Association of Zoos Association (EAZA) breeding program for gentoo penguins.

Gentoo penguins use pebbles to build their own nesting sites and impress mating partners.

Once an egg is laid, the parents will incubate it on their nest for about 30 days until signs of hatching appear.