African penguins are under pressure, their numbers dropping every year. They face predation pressure, both at the colonies and at sea. Cape fur seals are a significant predator in the water. Kelp gulls predate on eggs and chicks. At the mainland colonies, caracal and mongoose are also predators that can have substantial impact.

Climate change and the increase in frequency of extreme weather events are impacting the penguins through nest flooding and mortalities through hyper and hypothermia.

The largest threat currently is the reduced availability of their preferred prey, sardine and anchovy.

We must act now to save the African penguin.