A WOBBLY penguin has become the first in the world to get an MRI scan.

Chaka's keepers at Sea Life, Weymouth, noticed that he kept wobbling when he waddled. Chaka was booked in for an MRI scan at Cave Veterinary Specialists in Wellington just to be sure there was no underlying issues.

The scan showed that there was nothing of concern for Chaka, who lives a healthy life feeding and interacting with his fellow penguins.

Speaking about the procedure, Pippa Tucker at Cave Veterinary Specialists, said: “Performing an MRI on a penguin was something totally new for the team here at Cave.

''Although the MRI procedure itself is fairly straightforward, the biggest challenge was ensuring Chaka was as settled as possible for the scan.

“Unlike the cats and dogs we regularly treat, penguins can hold their breath for a considerable time, so our dedicated team made sure to closely monitor Chaka during the scan.

“We are delighted that all went to plan, and we are happy the MRI scan was successful.

''Chaka’s results have come back to show no detrimental issue to his health, and his scan now brings a range of new knowledge to help support future care of other penguins."

The world first scan not only helped to rule out any health issues with Chaka, but was also a crucial moment for Fairy Penguin research. The MRI images can now be shared with other vets, zoos, aquariums and sanctuaries to help them improve their understanding of these birds.

Kico Iraola, curator at Sea Life Weymouth, said: "This MRI scan is significant in enabling us to start to gather data about the skull and the bone structure for this species, as after comprehensive research, we could not find any historical MRI images for a Little Blue Penguin elsewhere.

"This first scan of a Fairy Penguin will therefore help to widen the knowledge of the species, for both us and others around the world, helping us ensure we’re providing the best possible care for our family of penguins.

“Chaka has become a penguin pioneer. Although his own waddle may still be a little wobbly, he has made great strides for the world of veterinary science and the penguin world.”

Please visit the Cave Vet Specialists website for more information.