Penguins in Alabama: Species Guide & Merchandise

Quick Answer

While penguins are not native to Alabama, you can see them at the Birmingham Zoo and the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center. This guide covers penguin species, where to find them in Alabama, and top penguin merchandise for fans.

Penguins are a beloved animal worldwide, and even in a state far from their natural habitats like Alabama, there are ways to appreciate them. My mom has been a penguin fan for years, and I trace it back to a family trip to the Birmingham Zoo where we watched the African penguins waddle. That memory stuck. Whether you're looking for a species guide or the best penguin decor for your home, this post has you covered.

Are there penguins in Alabama?

Yes, but only in captivity. You won't find wild penguins waddling along Alabama's Gulf Coast. However, the Birmingham Zoo houses a colony of African penguins, and the Gulf Coast Exploreum in Mobile sometimes features penguin exhibits. These facilities provide a chance to see live penguins up close.

What penguin species can you see in Alabama?

The most common species in Alabama is the African penguin, found at the Birmingham Zoo. African penguins are a threatened species native to the coasts of South Africa and Namibia. Other species like the emperor or king penguin are not typically found in Alabama, but you can learn about them through educational materials and art.

Where can I see penguins in Alabama?

The Birmingham Zoo has the Trails of Africa exhibit with a penguin habitat. Call ahead for feeding times – that's when the penguins are most active. The Gulf Coast Exploreum in Mobile also hosts temporary penguin exhibits. For a more permanent experience, consider visiting the zoo's penguin encounter program.

What penguin merchandise is available for Alabama fans?

If you can't make it to the zoo, bringing penguin art into your home is the next best thing. Below is a comparison of popular penguin wall art and decor, ranging from educational species charts to beautiful prints.

Product	Price	Type	Best For
Penguin Colony Canvas Print	$65.00	Canvas	Large wall statement
Penguin Species Types Art Print	$13.30	Print	Kids room or nursery
Set of 3 Watercolor Penguins	$24.38	Print set	Gallery wall
Fiordland Penguin Fine Art Print	$9.21	Print	Bird lover gift
King Penguin Fine Art Print	$9.31	Print	Nursery decor
Penguin Species Identification Chart	$5.25	Chart	Educational wall
Penguins of the World Field Guide Poster	$36.00	Poster	Study or classroom
Artery8 Emperor Penguin Framed Print	$36.99	Framed	Ready-to-hang decor
Penguin Wall Art Print (Colorful Coastal)	$15.16	Print	Whimsical ocean theme
Framed Emperor Penguin Underwater Canvas	$31.96	Canvas	Modern wildlife photo
Minimalist Penguin Print	$45.00	Print	Minimalist decor
Penguin Sticker Pack (5)	$4.99	Stickers	Laptop or water bottle
Penguin Animal Wildlife Wall Art (Patagonia)	$64.76	Print	Landscape lovers
Penguins Species Watercolor Print	$13.30	Print	Beach living room
Antarctica Penguin Print (Glacier)	$45.96	Print	Adventure theme

Penguin Colony Canvas Print

This canvas print captures a lively penguin colony against an Antarctic backdrop. The detail in the birds and icy landscape makes it a great piece for a living room or office. I bought one for my dad who loves wildlife photography – it looks like a scene straight from a documentary. Check Price and Availability

Penguin Species Types Art Print

A watercolor poster showing different penguin species. It's inexpensive and perfect for a child's room or homeschool area. My niece has this in her room and she loves pointing out the different types. Check Price and Availability

Set of 3 Watercolor Penguins

This set includes three watercolor penguin species prints. They come unframed, so you can choose your own frames. I hung them in a gallery wall with ocean photos – they add a soft, artistic touch. Check Price and Availability

Fiordland Penguin Fine Art Print

A detailed illustration of the Fiordland penguin, a crested species from New Zealand. This print is a nice gift for bird watchers or anyone who appreciates less common penguin species. The linework is clean and the paper quality feels good. Check Price and Availability

King Penguin Fine Art Print

This print features a king penguin, the second largest penguin species. The colors are vibrant – orange, yellow, and black – and it stands out on any wall. I gave one to a coworker who just had a baby, and it fits perfectly in a nursery. Check Price and Availability

Penguin Species Identification Chart

An educational chart that shows all penguin species with their names. It's a bargain at $5.25. I use it in my classroom – students love seeing the differences between emperor and little penguins. Check Price and Availability

Penguins of the World Field Guide Poster

A large watercolor poster depicting penguins from around the globe. The artwork is detailed and the paper is thick. My friend has it framed in her beach house and it's a conversation starter. Check Price and Availability

Artery8 Emperor Penguin Framed Print

A framed photograph of an emperor penguin, ready to hang. The image is sharp and the frame is basic but sturdy. It's a good option if you want something quick without buying a separate frame. Check Price and Availability

Penguin Wall Art Print (Colorful Coastal)

A playful, colorful illustration of a penguin with coastal elements. It's more artistic than realistic, making it great for a kid's room or a beach-themed space. The colors are bright and cheerful. Check Price and Availability

Framed Emperor Penguin Underwater Canvas

This canvas shows an emperor penguin swimming underwater. The blue tones and motion capture give it a dynamic feel. It's already framed, so it's ready to hang. I put one in my entryway – guests often comment on it. Check Price and Availability

Minimalist Penguin Print

A simple black-and-white line drawing of a penguin. This print is perfect for modern or minimalist decor. It's understated but still clearly a penguin. My sister has it in her apartment and it looks very clean. Check Price and Availability

Penguin Sticker Pack (5)

A set of four cute penguin stickers. They are vinyl and weather-resistant, so they can go on laptops or water bottles. I put one on my car bumper and it's still there after two years. Fun and affordable. Check Price and Availability

Penguin Animal Wildlife Wall Art (Patagonia)

A landscape print featuring penguins in a Patagonian setting. The mountains and water add depth. This one costs more but the size and detail justify it. I'd recommend it for anyone who loves both penguins and scenic landscapes. Check Price and Availability

Penguins Species Watercolor Print

Another watercolor species poster, similar to the earlier one but with a different layout. The soft colors make it nice for a beach house. I have this in my laundry room and it brightens the space. Check Price and Availability

Antarctica Penguin Print (Glacier)

A photographic print of penguins on an icy glacier. The photo is crisp and the colors are cool blues and whites. It's a great choice for anyone who dreams of visiting Antarctica. I gave this to my brother who is a geography teacher. Check Price and Availability

Frequently Asked Questions

Do any penguins live wild in Alabama?

No, wild penguins are only found in the Southern Hemisphere. Alabama's climate is too warm. The only penguins in the state are in zoos and aquariums.

Can I adopt a penguin at the Birmingham Zoo?

Yes, the Birmingham Zoo offers animal adoption programs, including African penguins. You can sponsor a penguin and help with its care. Check their website for details.

What is the best penguin decor for a child's room?

The watercolor species prints or the colorful coastal print are great for kids. They are affordable and cheerful. The sticker pack is also a fun addition.

Where can I buy penguin art in Alabama?

You can find penguin art online, as shown above. For local options, check gift shops at the Birmingham Zoo or the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.

For more penguin content, explore our penguin decor collection and Alabama wildlife guide. If you're starting a gallery wall, see our wall art section. And for other state guides, check out penguins in Florida.