A yet-unnamed Gentoo penguin chick hatched at the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga on June 25, 2026 [3].

The birth adds to the facility's penguin colony and provides a public opportunity to learn about the species' breeding and development.

The chick is the second offspring [2] for parents Nipper and Pebbles [1]. A Tennessee Aquarium spokesperson said the newest addition is "noticeably more easygoing than past penguin babies" [1].

Staff members said the chick will remain out of view until it is ready to join the rest of the colony on exhibit [1]. This transition typically occurs when the penguin is about 70 days old [4].

Before the chick is introduced to the public, it must pass a swim test to ensure it can navigate the aquatic environment safely [4]. The aquarium used the announcement to highlight the temperament of the baby and the care requirements for Gentoo penguins.

Nipper and Pebbles are among two [1] parent penguins managing the growth of the colony in the U.S. facility. The aquarium continues to monitor the chick's growth and health as it reaches the milestone for public exhibition.

“"noticeably more easygoing than past penguin babies"”

The successful hatching of a second chick for Nipper and Pebbles indicates a stable breeding environment at the Tennessee Aquarium. By keeping the chick hidden for approximately 70 days, the facility prioritizes biological development and safety over immediate public attraction, ensuring the animal is physically capable of swimming before integration.