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African penguins could disappear by 2035, campaigners say

2023-08-10 18:35:00, Kosova & Bota CNA
African penguins could disappear by 2035, campaigners say
Illustrative photo

African penguins are on track for extinction by 2035 if action is not taken to ensure their survival, campaigners have said.

African penguin populations have declined dramatically over the past 100 years. At the beginning of the 20th century, there are thought to have been perhaps several million breeding pairs: today fewer than 11,000 breeding pairs remain and the population continues to decline sharply, writes The Guardian.

The penguin is listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature on its Red List of Threatened Species. By 2035, on current trends, scientists say there won't be enough breeding pairs for the species to continue surviving in the wild.

Overfishing and environmental changes in the Indian Ocean have caused populations of fish such as sardines and anchovies to decline, leaving penguins to struggle for food. They are also threatened by disease, storms and floods, and pollution.

African penguins are known for their unusual markings and distinctive screeching calls. They live mainly on islands off the coast of Namibia and South Africa. In 1985, they formed a colony at Boulders Beach, on the outskirts of Simon's Town in Cape Town. Penguins often find their way into the city and can be found nesting in gardens, hiding under cars and walking alongside Cape Town commuters.

Despite the threats penguins face, there is hope for their survival./ CNA





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