Penguins are long-lived in zoo settings, and elderly individuals are prone to diseases of aging such as cataracts. Four crested penguins (three macaroni penguins, Eudyptes chrysolophus, and one southern rockhopper penguin, Eudyptes chrysocome) residing at the Detroit Zoo received cataract surgery from a veterinary ophthalmologist in late 2014. We collected observational data on these penguins before their surgery and after their recovery to evaluate the effects of restored sight on their behavior. We monitored each penguin’s activity budget, use of space and social behavior. Our results showed that each of the penguins used significantly more of their habitat following the surgery. The Penguinarium at the Detroit Zoo had three sides. Prior to surgery, each of the penguins spent their time almost exclusively on a single side, often by a nest. After surgery, all the penguins diversified their use of space and were observed using all three sides of the habitat. The effects of the surgery on the penguins’ activity budgets and social interactions were minimal. However, two birds spent significantly more time feeding after their surgery, and we suspect that their improved vision enabled them to compete more effectively for food.

https://doi.org/10.1080/10888705.2018.1519436