Ice to see you! Gentoo penguin Melody gets vision makeover
Collaborative cataract surgery a success
Melody, a 14-year-old gentoo penguin from SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium, has become only the second penguin ever to waddle into Eye Institute, Auckland for life-changing cataract surgery.
Almost two years after Eye Institute saw their first penguin, Cardi also from SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s, it was Melody’s turn to hop onto the specially modified table for surgery at the hands of renowned ophthalmologist Dr. Peter Hadden. Melody required the vision-saving surgery after recently developing a vision-blocking cataract in her right eye.
Although similar in many ways, penguin and human eyes have several key differences adapted to their environments and needs. These adaptations enable penguins to thrive in aquatic environments.
With a keen interest in both human and animal vision, Dr. Hadden has made significant contributions to the field through his ongoing research. His work on penguin vision, a major focus of his PhD, has enabled successful cataract surgeries on gentoo penguins Melody and Cardi. Known for his dedication and expertise, Dr. Hadden’s innovative approach bridges the gap between human and veterinary ophthalmology, enhancing the quality of life for his unique patients.
A collaborative group formed with experts from SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium, Eye Institute and Auckland Zoo worked together, bringing their individual expertise to Melody’s operation, which took about an hour to complete.
Auckland Zoo’s veterinary team provide veterinary care and expertise for the animals at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium, including the penguins. Working closely with the aquarium staff, the veterinarians had assessed Melody’s cataracts and been closely monitoring her overall condition. Together, it was decided that cataract surgery was necessary, and they were fortunate to be able call on the expertise of human ophthalmologist, Dr Peter Hadden’s assistance with performing the procedure.
Dr Peter Hadden, Operating Surgeon, Eye Institute, Auckland, said, “Having seen how Cardi’s functioning had improved after her cataract surgery, I was very pleased to be able to do the same for Melody, who is still quite young and has a long life ahead of her. Having done a penguin cataract before did make it easier to know how to approach this surgery and how it differed from similar surgery in a human. “
Dr Hannah Edwards, one of the veterinarians at Auckland Zoo taking care of Melody on the day, said: “Such a delicate and specialist surgery in a wild animal requires excellent general anaesthesia, in which we are very experienced. General anaesthesia of penguins has some unique challenges which our veterinary team are well prepared for; Melody was closely monitored, and her anaesthesia managed throughout the procedure using similar equipment as would be seen in a human theatre.”
Melody’s recovery took place over a several weeks, with the penguin initially being kept in a creche on land to enable the team to administer medications and ensure she stayed out of the water until her eye healed post-operatively. Follow-up examinations by Dr Edwards together with Dr Hadden showed excellent healing and return of vision.
Amy Wardrop, Curatorial Department Supervisor, SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s said, “Gentoo penguins are highly social animals that rely on visual cues. Ensuring Melody’s vision allows her to interpret and respond to her environment, which is crucial for her well-being.
As with Cardi, the team completed eye-drop training with Melody before her surgery, ensuring minimal stress while she recovered. We are hoping to see a marked improvement in Melody’s quality of life and look forward to watching her thrive.”
Two months on from her cataract surgery, Melody has fully recovered, her eyesight restored. With her newfound clarity, she’s regained her confidence and is participating in nesting season with her partner.
Guests can also discover a range of other marine and freshwater creatures at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s, including sharks, rays, turtles, and more! For more information head to: www.visitsealife.com/auckland/
