Update
MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Aptly named for the hope they bring in preserving their species, two African penguins, Beacon and Sunshine, are recovering well after their rescues.
These penguins are critically endangered, making the efforts organisations such as the Seabird and Penguin Rehabilitation Centre (Saprec) put into rescuing and rehabilitating them that much more important.
Carol Walton, Saprec's founder, said they have already rescued six of these penguins this year. Last year it was 14, and the year before that three.
"It looks like the pattern is changing and the penguins are moving more into the Southern Cape due to more fish availability."
Walton said at the current rate of rescues, they expect to have more than 14 by the end of this year.
Beacon, who was rescued from the brink of death on The Point beach near Beacon Wharf on 30 June, is now thriving.
Beacon is currently at Saprec, and thriving. Photo: Carol Walton
Walton had received an alert when this penguin was spotted on the beach. She hurried out to The Point and found it in a very poor condition, and rushed it to Dr Frans de Graaff of the Hartenbos Animal Hospital in the hopes that he would be able to save it.
Beacon has been at the centre now since 4 July.
"It will still be a while until it can be rewilded, but for now, the penguin is eating well and its road to recovery is going smoothly. I expect Beacon will be swimming in the next week or so."
Sunshine, on the other hand, had injured a flipper, and was recued by a member of the NSRI, Christiaan Stopforth. He called Saprec, who took over the penguin's care.
Walton said the penguin had sustained serious injuries as a result of being badly bitten.
Sunshine was treated at the Hartenbos Animal Hospital on 14 July, where she is doing well.
Sunshine in recovery at the Hartenbos Animal Hospital. Photo: Sr Stefanie de Graaff
"The flipper injury was severe, but Dr Anthony Creighton cleaned and debrided the wound and placed stitches. At this stage we are monitoring the wound for signs of infection. It is difficult to say how long the penguin will be staying - this will depend on a few factors," the hospital said.
Walton urged members of the public to call Saprec on 082 364 3382 as soon as they see a seabird in distress. It is important to report any incidents immediately, as time is of the essence when it comes to saving seabirds.
She mentioned Saprec will have been up and running for 20 years this year. The area of coastline under its care stretches about 220km, from Stilbaai to Plettenberg Bay.
She said the costs are ever increasing and any assistance to the organisation is highly valued.
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