11/20/2024
A penguin spending her golden years at the New England Aquarium, has lived an amazing three times as long as her species would normally expect, despite having a bad back.
The 30-year-old African penguin named "Peeko" was born and brought up at the aquarium. In her natural habitat, she has tripled the lifespan of her species. Similar to an elderly human patient, Peeko was exhibiting symptoms of aging, such as unusual posture when standing and walking, which veterinarians say is a sign of osteoarthritis or degenerative spinal disease.
After observing Peeko's discomfort, aquarium employees collaborated with an acupuncturist to provide relief. Peeko's type of Acupuncture reduces inflammation and increases circulation by focusing on areas of tight muscles. The bird is now exhibiting improvements; she is more active and nimble and is eating, swimming, and walking more effectively.
Peeko is not the first penguin to receive acupuncture at the aquarium, Deco the Penguin had also had acupuncture treatment; although unfortunately he died last summer at the age of 41.