SYDNEY - Pesto, the enormous king penguin chick, has captivated visitors at an Australian aquarium, including pop star Katy Perry who expressed a desire to "kiss Pesto" during her Melbourne visit for the Australian Football League Grand Final.

At nine months old, Pesto weighs 23.5 kg (52 lb), more than twice the combined weight of his parents. He holds the record as the largest chick ever seen at Sea Life Melbourne, earning a global fanbase, as shared by his caretaker, Michaela Smale.

Most of Pesto's weight comes from the soft, chocolate-brown fuzz that helps keep him warm throughout winter. This fuzz will eventually be shed as he grows adult feathers. Like all king penguins, Pesto is non-sexually dimorphic, meaning he lacks external characteristics that differentiate him from female penguins.

Earlier this month, a gender reveal event for Pesto gained significant attention on social media, and many of his videos on TikTok have garnered over a million likes. Smale expressed her excitement upon learning that Pesto is male, particularly since their previous king penguin hatchlings were all female.

Pesto's parents, Tango and Hudson, alongside the aquarium keepers, provide dedicated care, ensuring he receives 25 fish daily. The typical duration of parental care for a baby king penguin can last over a year, highlighting the commitment required to nurture these remarkable birds.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Instagram/sealifemelbourneaquarium