Some penguin chicks are growing up

 

This nest has officially gone into the post-guard breeding stage. The chicks are now old enough to be left at home while both parents go out to forage. In just a few more weeks, the chicks will fledge and go to sea for the first time. We'll be watching the parents to see if they have another clutch of eggs in November, as the two parents are perfect candidates for tracking!

This photo was taken while the parents were still in guard phase. The chicks are keeping to the back of the nest, away from predators.