SANCCOB recently released nine rehabilitated African Penguins and a Cape Cormorant to the wild in Betty’s Bay in the Western Cape.
The non-profit organisation seeks to rescue and rehabilitate endangered seabirds, whether by injury, illness, or other adverse causes.
It was a moment to celebrate for everyone involved, including the Penguins, signalling another success for the Penguin colonies’ survival.
Freedom never felt this good
The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds, or SANCCOB, was founded in 1968 by Althea Westphal; it all started when she rehabilitated 60 oiled Penguins from her home in Newlands.
Now, as a full-fledged non-profit organisation, our coastal seabirds can rest easier. The nine Penguins in question were returned to the wild after they were reportedly rehabilitated for several months.
SANCCOB shared a video showing the Penguins being released at Stony Point Penguin Colony in Betty’s Bay. The supportive team gently unboxed them on a small beach enclosure and left the Penguins to find their way to the water. They stood still for a moment, looked ahead, as if they were taking it all in, their freedom unfolding into the beyond, and then they started swimming.
As an endangered species, the African Penguin has faced numerous challenges, including the threats of oil spills, climate change, overfishing, and more. These have all contributed to the decline in their population numbers. But with organisations like SANCCOB, there is still hope for our waddling friends.
Have you spotted any Penguins recently?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 11.
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