Excitement soared on Nov 16 as Hangzhou Changqiao Polar Ocean Park welcomed its first penguin chick of the year during a live-streamed event. Thrilled viewers witnessed the moment as the chick broke free from its shell at 9:15 am, weighing in at 125.43 grams.

Dubbed "little cutie" by fans, the chick's parents Qian Duoduo and Fu Manman are seasoned caregivers known for raising healthy penguin chicks each year. Their second egg is already showing signs of hatching, promising another addition soon.

To ensure successful hatching, the egg was incubated in a controlled environment rather than by its parents. According to senior penguin breeding expert Lyu Xiaoyan, this method minimizes risks and ensures the chick's health. Once strong enough, the chick will reunite with its parents to begin the next stage of care.

The live stream drew thousands of viewers, who cheered for the hatchling and even proposed names. Daqiao, Xiaoqiao, and Changqiao were popular picks for the first three chicks expected this weekend.

Stay tuned as Hangzhou's penguin hatching season unfolds, bringing joy and life to the park!