[Animals] Stephen, one of the penguins from the famous gay couple whose love story captivated the world, dies

[-J3SUS-]

Sphen, the gentoo penguin who along with his same-sex partner became a huge symbol of equality, has died in Australia aged 11.

He and his partner Magic shot to fame in 2018 when they fell in love at Sydney's Sea Life aquarium and then adopted and raised two chicks.

Their romance has inspired carnival floats, was included in a part of Australia's educational programme and was even mentioned in an episode in the Netflix series Atypical.

Sydney's Sea Life aquarium says Sphen had an "immeasurable" impact around the world as a symbol of equality and as a channel for the cause of conservation.

The penguin's health had deteriorated in recent days and the aquarium's veterinary team made the difficult decision to euthanise him to end his pain and suffering.

 

https://www.bbc.com/mundo/articles/c3rd4r9jw0wo