African penguins join Tbilisi Zoo (VIDEO)

More than a dozen playful penguins are enjoying their new home at Tbilisi Zoo.

Nineteen African Penguins were officially welcomed to the Zoo today after being gifted to Tbilisi from Britain Living Coasts Zoo – the penguins’ previous home.

They freshening themselves after long journey. Photo by Tbilisi Zoo.

The penguins, also known as Jackass penguins or a Black-footed penguins, originate from South Africa and live in the cold currents along the coast.

Tbilisi Zoo photo.

A Tbilisi Zoo spokesperson said it was extremely special to have the African penguins join Tbilisi Zoo, which are classified as ‘endangered’ by international animal advocacy group World Wildlife Fund (WWF).

The Zoo’s press centre said it was "a great honour” to house the African penguins at Tbilisi Zoo and because of their low population numbers, the new penguins would join a special breeding program.

Hurrying up to the pool. Photo by Tbilisi Zoo.

The penguin’s new enclosure includes a sandy beach and large pool.