Mumbai, August 15: The Byculla zoo officials have their fingers crossed as we may see the first birth from our penguin guests. A penguin couple Flipper and Mr Molt are expecting their egg to hatch this week. The eggs of these birds hatch after 40 to 45 days and on August 15, the eggs complete a 40-day period. So the officials are awaiting if there will be a double delight of the first penguin birth along with the Independence Day. Humboldt Penguin Chick Hatched at Mumbai's Byculla Zoo! View Pics & Videos of India's First Baby Penguin.

The caretakers of these penguins realised that two of them Molt and Flipper had a single egg, after a very long period of courtship. Dr Madhumita Kale, Head Veterinarian who is also in charge of the penguin enclosure said, " Though both Flipper and Molt are first-time parents, they are taking excellent care of the eggs. Mummy Flipper spends the maximum time — 36 to 48 hours at a stretch — incubating the eggs, followed by daddy Molt, who also incubates the eggs diligently."  Here's How Penguins Give Humans Ultimate Relationship Goals!  

The zoo authorities have been very careful about not touching the egg since it has been laid as they did not want any disturbance to it. They have also been monitoring the health and weight of both the parents ensuring they get proper nutrition as well. Molt and Flipper are very careful and do not let even other penguins come near the egg. Move Over 'Employee of The Month,' This Aquarium Has 'Naughty Penguin' of The Month to Attract Visitors. 

The authorities meanwhile are also preparing to welcome the penguin baby, to ensure it will be kept in a separate area. "There is an accommodation room attached to the enclosure itself and the baby penguin could be kept there if required," said a zoo official in a news report. The baby will be closely monitored for three to four months and will not be exhibited until it is fully grown to take care of itself. The officials are also learning how to take care of the newborn.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 15, 2018 11:02 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).