SPCA Inspector Dumisani Gumede and Simon du Plessis with the penguin.
A remarkable wildlife rescue unfolded on Manaba beach earlier today (Friday) when a juvenile African penguin, believed to have travelled about 1 500km from its normal habitat, was found washed ashore.
Well-known South Coast couple, Madelein and Simon du Plessis discovered the young penguin lying on the sand and immediately realised it needed help.
Madelein and Simon du Plessis.
The couple stayed with the bird to ensure it was protected from curious beachgoers and dogs while waiting for assistance.
The Lower South Coast SPCA responded swiftly, with friendly Inspector Dumisani Gumede safely securing the penguin for assessment and rehabilitation.
According to Simon, sightings of African penguins on the KZN South Coast are extremely unusual.
“This little one was about 1 500km out of range. The closest breeding area is Betty’s Bay in the Western Cape, so it’s extremely rare for one to be this far from home,” he said.
The little penguin washed ashore. Image thanks to Simon du Plessis Photography of Action Image.
Although the penguin appeared exhausted after its unexpected journey, Simon said it seemed to be in good condition.
“It looked tired but otherwise in good health, with no visible injuries. We stayed with it to make sure it was safe until the SPCA arrived,” he said.
Madelein praised the quick response from the animal welfare team.
“A huge thank you to Lower South Coast SPCA’s Inspectors Mike Davis and Gumede for assisting us so quickly with this little beauty. It was wonderful to know the penguin was in experienced hands,” she said.
The couple hope the rescue will encourage others to report stranded wildlife rather than attempting to intervene themselves.
The penguin washed ashore. Image thanks to Simon du Plessis Photography of Action Image.
Madelein urged members of the public to keep their distance if they encounter a penguin or other wild animal on the beach.
“Secure the area by keeping dogs and people away, but don’t touch the animal. Contact the Lower South Coast SPCA, and they will handle the rescue safely,” he said.
Shona Aylward is a vastly experienced journalist working as a senior reporter. Aside from her extensive community involvement and story writing, she is also involved in creative page layout, and the various media platforms. Shona began her career with Caxton at the Southlands Sun. Previous to this she worked in the marketing industry for surf magazines. Shona is a renown 'greenie' and champions environmental causes. She is also Mom to a number of dogs and cats, and the occasional uninvited snake. When she can find some spare time, it's usually to the beach that she heads.
