An elderly woman cried tears of joy when her daughter fulfilled her lifelong dream of petting a real penguin.

Christine Cross is a super fan of all things penguin, and for a Christmas gift, her daughter Lindsay Cross made her dream come true.

A video shows the 76-year-old overcome with emotion after petting the bird at SeaWorld in San Diego, California.

"When I actually told her about the present she didn't say any words. It was more like an excited noise," recalls Lindsay.

Christine, a retired special needs teacher, has always loved penguins and feels very connected to them.

"She associated herself with them because they're clumsy on land but graceful in the water. My mum was the same. She's an absolute clutz but as soon as she gets in the water she's so graceful."

She collects anything penguin-themed and has sponsored the animals in zoos for years by sending money for their care.

"She's a big fan and has been collecting penguins her whole life-toys, figurines, pencils, clothes with penguins on them, paintings, Christmas decorations, anything."

"When we got back I lost count of how many times she said thank you!"

Watch the special moment below…

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