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Sydney aquarium filled with song after sea birds mourn death of gay penguin

Sea Life Sydney Aquarium keeper describes the unique and ‘very beautiful’ singing scene that unfolded as Sphen’s partner, Magic, and the gentoo colony were taken to see Sphen

There wasn’t a dry eye among staff at Sydney’s Sea Life Aquarium as Magic and his fellow gentoo penguins cried out, mourning the loss of Sphen in an emotional scene never before witnessed by employees. Penguin keeper Renee Howell witnessed the couple’s love story bloom from the beginning, and said the pair’s impact as a worldwide symbol of equality was “immeasurable”. Knowing the impact Sphen had on the wider community is providing comfort to the entire team, who share strong bonds with the animals, Howell said.

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