ALFIE
JUMPER
A quiet legend. Tiny jumpers. Real rescue.
Alfred "Alfie" Date was Australia's oldest man who, at 109 years old, knitted tiny sweaters for little penguins affected by oil spills. His gentle craft helped save hundreds of lives.
What the jumpers were for
When oil spills occur, little penguins try to preen the oil from their feathers, swallowing the toxic substance. The tiny knitted jumpers act as a temporary barrier, preventing this dangerous behavior until rescuers can properly clean them.
Oil spill
Jumper
Release
438
Penguins affected (2001)96%
Successfully releasedNote: Only approved patterns are safe for penguin rehabilitation.
Penguins in jumpers
Real photos from penguin rehabilitation centers around Australia.
Note: Use real photos; some viral "penguins in sweaters" images are actually stuffed toys.