Penguin biologist Paul Leonard is in South Africa researching African penguins
in the wild on Dassen Island, once home to 600,000 penguins. The following is a photo update from the field, where there are only about 8,000 birds today.
Most people aren't aware that African penguins make their nests underground. Here on Dassen, the penguins have chosen several different schemes to call home.
African penguin burrows
Even some artificial homes were transplanted around the island. However, the penguins seem to prefer their traditional design.
The
island is considered to be a remnant of an ancient volcano. As a
result it is covered in limestone and some penguins have chosen to live
in it.
The
penguin parents have the best intentions when creating their new homes.
Unfortunately, Mother Nature eventually takes over and many disappear
into the island.
Learn
about the time Paul spent nursing abandoned chicks to health at a local
rescue facility here.
Follow the adventures of Paul's
co-worker, Jo! Aquarium educator Jo Blasi is still on the mainland in
South Africa learn about African penguins and raising abandoned chicks
at SANCCOB through their chick bolstering project! Read about her experience on the Explorers Blog.
Penguin Blog
Saturday, December 3, 2011
South Africa #11: Dassen's African Penguin Homes
Labels:
2011SouthAfrica,
African penguins,
burrows,
Dassen,
Paul
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