Calgary Zoo Penguin Undergoes Emergency Endoscopy After Ingesting Coin

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo recently issued a public advisory following an incident where Juanita, a thirteen-year-old female Humboldt Penguin, ingested a coin within the Penguin Plunge habitat. Zoo staff initiated diagnostic procedures after observing the penguin exhibiting a slightly abnormal gait, leading to an X-ray at the Animal Health Centre. This imaging confirmed the presence of a metallic foreign body, posing a critical danger due to the potential for accelerated heavy metal toxicity from ingested metals in the bird's stomach acid.

The specialized Animal Health team, consisting of veterinarians and registered veterinary technologists, performed an emergency endoscopy while Juanita was under general anesthesia. During the procedure, a camera was used to visualize the stomach, which was gently distended with air and water. Retrieval forceps were then used to extract the object through the esophagus. Fortunately, the retrieved coin was identified as a newer composition, lacking the highly toxic elements of zinc or lead, thus averting a potential zinc poisoning scenario.

Juanita has since begun her recovery and was returned to the Penguin Plunge exhibit to rejoin her colony. The X-rays taken during the initial assessment also revealed an unrelated diagnosis: degenerative joint disease in Juanita's right knee, for which she is now receiving supportive care. This incident highlights the comprehensive animal welfare approach at the facility, which manages over 4,000 animals across more than 100 species.

In response to the near-calamity, the zoo has reinforced directives to the visiting public regarding object security near enclosures. Visitors are explicitly instructed not to place personal items, such as coins or wrappers, on habitat railings or ledges. Any item accidentally dropped into an enclosure must be reported to staff immediately for risk mitigation. This caution is underscored by historical events, including the 2012 death of another penguin, Fiona, from secondary complications after ingesting a large stick, and procedural changes implemented after the 2016 drowning of seven Humboldt penguins in the same habitat.