Adorable Sioux Falls Penguins Return Outside at Great Plains Zoo

It's been a long time coming for staff at the Sioux Falls Great Plains Zoo & Butterfly House & Aquarium. One of the beloved colonies at the zoo is finally back outside!

To keep the Humboldt penguins safe from avian influenza (otherwise known as bird flu), staff at the Sioux Falls Great Plains Zoo & Butterfly House & Aquarium kept the penguins inside their enclosure for an extended period of time. Now the penguins are feeling free outside!

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On Friday morning, the Sioux Falls Great Plains Zoo & Butterfly House & Aquarium posted a cute Facebook video of the Humboldt penguins exploring their outdoor home for the first time in forever.

After some confused faces and encouraging words from the friendly zookeepers, the Humboldt penguins took the giant leap and happily enjoyed their outdoor exhibit. They were so brave!

Don't worry, Sioux Empire zoo lovers! The penguins are safe, and staff at the Great Plains Zoo took time to protect them while they're out in the sunshine.

We’ve made important updates to help protect them and the colony is bravely exploring their new and improved exhibit!

(Outdoor access will depend on weather, and whether the penguins choose to go out.)

The Sioux Empire is excited to have the penguins back outside!

I love this! I just said the other day that I missed them outdoors and that they need a new enclosure.

You can celebrate the penguins in their outdoor exhibit during the Summer Celebration at the Great Plains Zoo tomorrow! Check out ticket details here.

11 Things You’ll Only Understand After Living in South Dakota

From soda to pop to sloppy Joes, different parts of the country have their local quirks and language. Simple phrases can have totally different meanings, local events may seem weird, and food may go by a unique name.

If you're new to South Dakota, here is a sort of translation guide for some odd things you may see or hear.

Gallery Credit: Ben Kuhns