African penguins, now critically endangered, are struggling for survival along South Africa’s coast.
With fewer than 10,000 breeding pairs left, the species is at risk of extinction by 2035.
Ranger Mashudu Mashau, who rescues injured penguins, highlights the growing challenge.
“We move slowly and carefully to avoid stressing them,” he said. Despite these efforts, conservationists are concerned their work isn’t enough.
The primary threat is food scarcity, as penguins rely on sardines and anchovies.
Marine biologist Allison Kock explains that many penguins are starving, preventing successful breeding.
In response, authorities imposed a ten-year fishing ban around key colonies, but conservationists argue it’s insufficient.
While the South African Pelagic Fishing Industry downplays the impact of fishing, other threats like climate change and disease continue to harm penguin populations.
A court hearing in March 2025 will address the fishing dispute.
Tourism, although beneficial, also contributes to the problem, with visitors disturbing the penguins.
Conservationists hope for greater respect for the species, similar to the attention given to rhinos.
For Mashau, saving penguins means protecting the ecosystem. “The healthier the penguins, the healthier our environment,” he said.
