Very happy feet: Meet Cookie the penguin, the tiny internet star who loves being tickled

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER
Last updated at 2:51 PM on 19th April 2011

It turns out humans aren't the only ones who are ticklish - penguins are too.

It might not be one of the greatest scientific discoveries, but it certainly makes for a cute YouTube video.

A tiny penguin called Cookie has become the internet's latest star after he has a fit of high-pitched giggles when his handler tickles him at Cincinnati Zoo.

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More than 594,000 viewers have watched as the little bird puts Happy Feet's Mumble to shame with a foot-tapping, wing-waving performance to be proud of.

The mascot of Cincinnati Zoo's birdhouse could melt even the hardest of hearts with his performance, which has gone viral on YouTube.

He's a Little Penguin, a breed which grows no bigger than 12 to 13 inches tall.

At the start of the clip Cookie cuts a sorry figure as he waddles awkwardly across the floor with a bandaged foot.

Me please! Despite his bandaged foot, little Cookie speeds over to his handler when he realises what's in store...

Left a bit, right a bit: Cookie leans forward to let his handler tickle him just behind his head...

...and becomes even more affectionate when he starts tickling his belly

Despite suffering from an infection known as bumblefoot, the little bird still manages to wave his tail enthusiastically for the camera.

But he really comes into his own when his keeper puts his hand out to start tickling him.

The tiny bird flaps over with glee, and starts giggling as the handler tickles his belly.

His wings flap madly and he chases himself round and round in circles with a very human mixture of delight and annoyance.

Cookie's whole body vibrates as he almost purrs with delight - to the satisfaction of the filmmaker, who says she's pleased to have 'finally got that on tape.'

And if his job as mascot ever comes to an end, Cookie is sure to make a fine extra for any Happy Feet sequel.