Penguin Sphen, Symbol of Equality, Dies at 11

Sphen, the elder half of the famous same-sex penguin couple with Magic, has died at age 11 at the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium. The pair, who gained international fame in 2018 for their bonded relationship and co-parenting of two chicks, became symbols of equality and were celebrated worldwide, featuring in the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras and the Netflix series 'Atypical.' Following Sphen's death, Magic was brought to see his partner's body, leading him and the other penguins to sing in a touching farewell. Sphen's passing is mourned by the aquarium staff and the global community, who viewed their love story as an icon of same-sex animal partnerships and conservation awareness.