“I was amazed by the chicks’ ability to make such a tremendous leap,” he exclaims. “Not only did they survive, but they also happily swam off together into the Southern Ocean… Isn’t that an incredible first swimming lesson?”
Watch the ‘unbelievable’ series of leaps here
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It is quite common for young emperor penguin chicks to make their way towards the ocean, even at a tender age of 6 months. National Geographic states that these chicks take their first swim by jumping a mere 2 feet off the ice.
People have dared to take the plunge from even greater heights, purposefully aiming for “sheer ice cliffs” in their quest for the first jump. Since 2009, these breathtaking leaps have been captured by satellites, but what comes next has remained shrouded in mystery until now.
As Gregory looks on, he is taken aback by the sight of a group of chicks making their way along the edge of the massive ice cliff. Curiosity piqued, he can’t help but wonder out loud, “What’s happening here? Where are these chicks headed?”
They halt just before the precipice.
Gregory remarks that the cliff appears to be around 40-50 feet high. He adds that he has only observed emperors jumping off sea ice, which is only a couple of feet high at most. He expresses disbelief that the penguins would consider jumping off such a tall cliff.
One lone chick … one giant leap
A single chick confidently approaches the edge, making a slight adjustment before taking a courageous leap into the chilly water. Its entry creates a big splash, but the chick quickly adapts and begins swimming effortlessly.
Gregory is in disbelief as he exclaims, “I can’t believe it, he’s actually made it!”
The other chicks see the successful dive as a signal to proceed, and they follow suit by taking the plunge into the water at regular intervals.
Gregory explains that these chicks have spent their entire lives together, forming a strong bond. He predicts that many of them will soon take the leap and start flying. The initial few brave ones will serve as role models, inspiring the rest to follow suit. Gregory even notices some of them attempting to flap their wings, eager to explore the skies.
National Geographic clip is just the start, documentary coming soon
Get ready to be amazed by the captivating behavior you just witnessed, which has never been captured on film before. This extraordinary display is just a glimpse of what awaits you in the upcoming National Geographic docuseries. Scheduled to premiere on Earth Day, April 22, 2025, the highly anticipated SECRETS OF franchise brings you the fascinating world of penguins like never before. Stay tuned for more exciting updates on SECRETS OF THE PENGUINS, an award-winning series that will leave you awe-inspired.
Watch in amazement as hundreds of baby emperor penguins take the leap off a massive ice cliff. The video captures the incredible moment when these adorable creatures fearlessly jump into the icy waters below. It’s truly a sight that will leave you in awe.
