There is sorrow at the Sea Life aquarium in Sydney. Penguin dad Sphen, who together with his partner Magic has become a symbol of same-sex love, has died, the aquarium writes on its website.
The loss of Sphen is heartbreaking for the other penguins, the team, and everyone who has been inspired and touched by Sphen and Magic's story, says the aquarium's manager Richard Dilly in a statement on Thursday.
The couple became world-famous when their relationship was highlighted and when they later, with a little help, adopted two penguin chicks from the egg stage.
Sphen and Magic have been seen side by side for six years, and when Sphen finally died of natural causes, 12 years old, Magic was taken to his side as part of the grieving process, according to The Guardian. According to the aquarium, Magic began to sing when he saw his dead partner.
Magic, who is now facing his first breeding season without his partner, will receive extra attention from the aquarium staff.
