What’s in a name? A lot especially if you’re a Little Blue Penguin and don’t have one.

Monday is World Penguin Day and what better way to celebrate the fun than by giving a name to this cute little guy above also known as a Eudyptula minor. He’s currently at the Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego.
 
All penguin lovers are invited to submit a name for this penguin who will move to the Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins’ habitat when it opens this summer.

“Being able to introduce the community to Little Blue Penguins and foster a deeper connection and understanding of their environment, how important they are to our ecosystems and the survival challenges they face, is truly a milestone worth celebrating,” said Jenn Nero Moffatt, senior director of animal care, science and conservation. 
 
So, what’s his name going to be? Joe? Jack? That’s for the public to decide beginning today, until May 8 and why they think it’s the perfect fit for this penguin via the Birch Aquarium’s website.

Tips for naming him: the pint-sized penguin needs a name as unique as its species and Birch Aquarium encourages the community to pick a name with ties to San Diego, UC San Diego, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, or Birch Aquarium.

“This penguin is one of my favorites because he has a mellow and friendly disposition. He’s often seen swimming and spending time with the other males in the colony,” said Kayla Strate, lead penguin aquarist. “He’s got this beautiful sharp plumage and that characteristic hook on the end of his bill that is a sure giveaway that this is a strong, competitive male.”

This is the first time in the history of Birch Aquarium the team is naming any of its animals. This newly-named penguin will be joining Magic, Nero, Persimmon, Reka, Cornelius, and Katie, who have all been named through philanthropic gifts.

Birch Aquarium will choose four potential names from the submissions and announce them on the aquarium’s social media channels. The public will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite of the four selected names from May 16 to May 29. The final name will be announced on June 2.

Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins is the biggest addition to Birch Aquarium in 30 years. When the exhibit opens to the public this summer, it will be included in the cost of admission, which is $24.95 for adults and $19.95 for children ages 3-17. Annual memberships are also available.

Advanced reservations are required for all guests, including members. Visit aquarium.ucsd.edu for more information or to make a reservation.