TWO new penguins have been welcomed into the established colony at Blair Drummond Safari Park.

The pair of Humboldt penguins, called Skipper and Mola Mola, join the leading wildlife centre from Twycross Zoo.

Both one year old males, the pair have arrived as part of a broader initiative to support species conservation across the UK.

Jen Carpenter, leader of the penguin department at Blair Drummond, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Skipper and Mola Mola to the family and we’re hoping that they’ll soon bond with our unpartnered females.

“Humboldt penguins are typically monogamous, and some of our females are still waiting for their perfect match.

“These exchanges are crucial for the long-term wellbeing and conservation of species like the Humboldt penguins, and we’re proud to contribute to this important effort.”

Skipper and Mola Mola join Blair Drummond’s penguin colony, which saw the birth of three health chicks this year.

The introduction of two new males is expected to encourage further breeding, adding to the colony’s growth in the new year.

Humboldt penguins are classified as vulnerable in the wild, owing to factors such as climate change and habitat loss.

Blair Drummond currently has more female Humbolt penguins than males, meaning two of the girls – Cooper and Trixie – will be getting transferred to London Zoo in October.

Skipper and Mola Mola have settled into their new home quickly, with visitors welcomed to witness them enjoying their new surroundings alongside the existing colony.