African Penguins

The African penguin, also known as the Cape penguin or South African penguin or African black-footed or jackass penguin, is a species of penguin found only along the southwestern coast of Africa. The species’ population has declined by nearly 90% over the past 70 years.

Artificial nests can enhance the breeding success of African penguins. 

Physical Description: Their bodies are torpedo-shaped; their backs are black, and their chests and bellies are white with a black inverted U-shaped stripe. A layer of fat provides additional protection against chilly ocean waters.

Credits: Flickr

They are excellent swimmers and divers. Emit a loud, braying, donkey-like call to communicate.

Distribution: Inhabits the Benguela and western Agulhas ecosystems of southern Africa.

Conservation Status: IUCN: Endangered | CITES: Appendix II