MOSSEL BAY NEWS - An injured penguin was found on rocks in Mossel Bay last week and the rescue of the bird was made extremely long and difficult by people who made the mistake of trying to make the bird go back into the sea.
The penguin was found on a rock in the sea between Beacon Point and Delfino's restaurant on 5 August.
Seabird and Penguin Rehabilitation Centre (SAPREC) founder and director Carol Walton says: "It took 24 hours to get hold of the penguin.
"People were trying to get the penguin to go back into the sea and they should not do that," Walton stressed. "I appeal to people. Don't try to chase penguins back into the sea. Keep away from them and keep dogs away from them. Just contact SAPREC (071 643 2496).
"The penguin has a gash in its head and was in a bad state."
The bird is currently being tended to at SAPREC, which is based at Mossdustria outside Mossel Bay.
Walton says it is important to keep the bird's wound open and clean so it can form a scab. The penguin is on strong antibiotics.
'We bring you the latest Mossel Bay, Garden Route news'
