Charlie the penguin is thriving at uShaka Sea World

CHARLIE, the injured juvenile African penguin that was rescued near Warner Beach on July 24, is showing remarkable progress in his recovery.

Initially found almost lifeless with severe injuries from a shark bite that lacerated his skin and pierced his cloaca, Charlie underwent surgery performed by the South African Association for Marine Biological Research’s (Saambr’s) clinical veterinarian, Dr Caryl Knox.

Also read: Injured penguin rescued near Warner Beach

The surgery was successful, and Charlie has since been recovering at uShaka Sea World.

As of August 27, Saambr’s communications officer Nikhiel Singh said he now weighs 3.2kg, is off all medication and his wound has healed beautifully. “Although, it still has some way to go until the vets are fully happy with it. The scab still needs to come off, and then we need to assess the waterproofing viability of his feathers,” he said.

Singh also said Charlie is swimming three times a day with his roommate, Bowie, who was found stranded at Salt Rock on July 14.

“He is diving nicely and enjoys the water. He walks around his enclosure with no issues at all and also has a great appetite,” he said.

Despite the initial grim prognosis, Charlie’s fighting spirit has shone through, and while he still has some recovery ahead, his progress has been a source of relief and hope for everyone involved. Singh said he will remain under their care for at least another two months.

Do you have more information pertaining to this story? Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.