The other seven still need rehabilitation before they will also be released, after they have been declared fit by Dr Frans de Graaff.
The past month's stormy seas and cold temperatures led to the stranding of many juvenile penguins on beaches in and around Mossel Bay. Because of so many rescuers that contacted SAPREC, most of these little penguins survived their ordeal.
The main reason for them stranding is that they battle to feed when the sea is very rough. This makes them too weak to fight the strong currents and they end up on our beaches. If they don't get rescued, they will fall prey to seagulls or dogs might attack them. Sometimes they get bitten by seals as well and when they strand on rocky beaches, the rolling waves over the rocks can cause broken wings and backs.
Therefore, it is very important for all of our residents to be on the lookout for these endangered little creatures and if spotted, to call Carol Walton at 082 364 3382 for assistance on how to handle and keep the bird safe until help arrives.
According to Carol, there is a definite increase in beached penguins every year during July and August and mainly because of the rough seas experienced.
The main breeding season for the African Penguin is from March to May, which explains why mostly juveniles get into trouble this time of the year, as they are more or less only three months old. African Penguins travel around our coastline between breeding grounds from Port Elizabeth to Angola.
There are currently only three mainland breeding colonies – Bird Island in PE, Stony Point at Betty's Bay and Boulders Beach in Simonstown and 24 colonies on islands off our coast. Their conservation status decrease by about 2% per year and according to the International Red Data Book status, they are classified as vulnerable.
That certainly leaves us with no other option than to be on the lookout for stranded birds and help them by contacting Carol. Funds at the Centre are also "vulnerable" and all donations are very welcome. The banking details are as follow: SAPREC, Standard Bank, Mossel Bay branch, account number 082847665.
For more information, please visit the website – www.saprec.org or the Facebook page 'Seabird and Penguin Rehabilitation Centre'.
Volunteers of SAPREC and Cape Nature get ready to release four penguins.
ARTICLE: TERSIA MARAIS
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