Spring in Pittsburgh marks a season of renewal—it’s also a time when the Pittsburgh Penguins organization proudly recognizes two important environmental observances: Earth Day on April 22 and World Penguin Day on April 25.
In honor of both events, the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Penguins Foundation will highlight efforts to support wildlife and sustainability from April 22 through April 25 on social media and through community engagement. These efforts align with the NHL’s League-wide NHL Green initiative, which focuses on protecting the environment and promoting sustainable practices across the league.
As part of these celebrations, the Penguins continue their long-standing partnership with the National Aviary, a leading conservation and education institution located in the heart of Pittsburgh. Since 2015, the Penguins Foundation has awarded $30,000 in grants to the Aviary. Most recently, Penguins players’ wives and girlfriends contributed an additional $5,000 to help care for the penguin habitat during the pandemic.
Penguins from the National Aviary have made special guest appearances at major team events over the years, including the Night of Assists Gala, the Penguins Foundation’s 10th Anniversary Game, the Wine Tasting Gala, and Stanley Cup Celebration events in 2016 and 2017. Penguins players and coaches have also enjoyed visiting the Aviary with their families, deepening the team’s connection to its namesake species.
The National Aviary offers Animal Encounters, educational programs, birdwatching, and both in-person and virtual summer camps, inviting families and nature lovers to engage with its mission. Learn more at www.aviary.org.
In celebration of World Penguin Day, fans are invited to symbolically adopt a penguin from the Aviary’s African penguin colony, including baby Marge, the newest member of the group. Adoption packages start at $25 and include a personalized letter, certificate, animal photo, and species fact sheet. A $75 adoption of Marge also includes an adorable plush penguin. All proceeds directly support the Aviary’s high standards of animal care. To adopt, visit aviary.org/support-our-work/adopt-a-bird.
Fun Fact: Two of the African penguins at the National Aviary are named Stanley and Sidney, in honor of Pittsburgh’s NHL team.
