Penguins on Maui? Yes, and you can join them on World Penguin Day

It’s almost World Penguin Day! Maui seems an unlikely place to find penguins, but there they are -- and the island will be celebrating Monday with its seven black-footed penguins.

The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa in Lahaina is the only Hawaiian hotel with an on-site penguin habitat. Come party with the birds -- a.k.a. African or jackass penguins -- named Oreo, Nahu, Buddah, Zen, Mai, Tai and Momi.

One of 18 species of penguins, these birds thrive in the tropical heat because they are warm-climate creatures native to southern coastal Africa.

Guests and visitors are invited to watch the penguins swim and waddle at a free event that includes a penguin feeding at 9:30 a.m., penguin cookie-decorating and a photo booth for pictures with the resort’s mascot (yep, it’s a penguin).

Those who stay overnight Saturday will receive a turndown with a penguin toy to take home.

By the way, the Hyatt Regency Maui’s penguins range in age from 7 to 30 years old. Six of the seven were hatched at the property, and they collectively eat about 300 pounds of fish each week.

The most distinctive thing about these penguins is that they honk and bray -- perfect for any World Penguin Day party.

Info: Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, (808) 661 1234

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