Penguins take flight to head home

JUST a few days before African Penguin Awareness Day on October 7, two endangered African Penguins flew home to Port Elizabeth after spending time in the rehabilitation centre at uShaka Sea World.

Gucci and Havaiana, arrived at uShaka Sea World within a week of each other after being found stranded on separate KZN beaches.

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Both Gucci and Havaiana were underweight on arrival but they have gained 1.8 and 2.8kgs respectively since their arrival at uShaka Sea World.

“In addition to being underweight, Havaiana also had an injury to his leg that has thankfully, completely healed,” said Animal Behaviourist, Kerry Cahill.

The tightly bonded pair follow each other when they are swimming and waddling about.

“Gucci is very good at keeping Havaiana in her vision and I have no doubt she will claim him as her lifelong mate once they are released,” said Cahill.

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Havaiana and Gucci were given their “flying colours” by resident veterinarian, Dr Francois Lampen, which meant that they were fit to travel to SANCCOB (The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds) in Port Elizabeth to begin the final stage of their rehabilitation journey – preparing for release.

The two were placed in specially designed transport boxes to leave for Port Elizabeth on a flight out of King Shaka International Airport.

For more information, contact Ann Kunz during office hours at uShaka Marine World on 031 328 8222.

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