CAPE TOWN DOG OWNERS URGED TO BE CAREFUL AROUND PENGUINS

“Irresponsible dog walkers add to the demise of the Critically Endangered African Penguin!’

That’s the headline of an urgent appeal by the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), requesting that those who walk their dogs near colonies of seabirds take more care to ensure the safety of these precious creatures.

In recent years, a troubling number of incidents have been recorded in which off-leash dogs have attacked penguins and other seabirds along South Africa’s coastline. These attacks often result in serious injuries, trauma, and in some cases, the death of the birds.

One of the most devastating events occurred in 2022 in Simon’s Town, when two domestic dogs from nearby homes killed 19 African Penguins. The incident dealt a severe blow to ongoing conservation efforts aimed at protecting this endangered species.

In a recent statement, the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) reiterated the urgent need for pet owners to control their animals around seabird colonies. The organization emphasized that these attacks are not the fault of the dogs, but of negligent owners.

“One of the main challenges facing mainland seabird colonies is the added threat from humans and land-based predators, including domestic dogs,” SANCCOB stated. “In recent years, African Penguins have suffered severe trauma and death due to off-leash dog attacks. This is not a ‘dog problem’—it’s an owner problem, the result of ignoring by-laws and shirking responsibility.”

The African Penguin population is in sharp decline due to a range of complex and mounting threats, from habitat loss and food scarcity to pollution and predation. Conservationists warn that time is running out to save the species from extinction.

“We are in a race against time,” SANCCOB stressed. “While conservation stakeholders are working tirelessly to protect the African Penguin, we also need the public to do their part.”

Their message to dog owners is simple: be responsible.

“When walking your furry companions near seabird habitats, keep them leashed and under control. The survival of a species depends on it.”

What to do if you see an injured seabird

If you come across an injured seabird, please contact SANCCOB on 021 557 6155 during working hours and on 078 638 3731 after hours and on weekends. SANCCOB is a 24-hour Seabird Rescue Centre.

SANCCOB advises that you always approach an injured seabird with caution, as species such as gannets and penguins have sharp beaks which could cause you harm.

‘Have with you a towel or blanket and wear protection over your hands and eyes. Gently throw the towel or blanket over the bird to catch it, ensuring that the bird is able to breathe. Place the bird in a large box if you have one, after first ensuring that there are holes for air. Keep the bird in a warm quiet place until help arrives,’ SANCCOB explains.

How to support SANCCOB

There are various ways you can help SANCCOB continue their all-important work. For the full list of how you can get involved – which includes donating funds, volunteering and even adopting a penguin, click here.