German zoo pleads for return of stolen penguin

Feb. 13 (UPI) -- A zoo in Germany is pleading with the public for help finding a missing penguin that was apparently stolen from its exhibit.

The Luisenpark zoo in Mannheim said the Humboldt penguin, a species native to South Africa, was discovered missing during a headcount Saturday and apparently vanished from the exhibit at some point between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Police said officials conducted a search of the area and were unable to find any sign of escape, leading zookeepers to conclude the penguin was stolen.

Officials said the thief would have a difficult time selling the flightless bird, as it bears the number 53 on its wing and is implanted with an identification chip.

The zoo warned the penguin's health could suffer from being away from its special diet and controlled environment.