Xolani Lawo has a pretty unique talent. He has a way with penguins so special, it’s earned him the title of the Penguin Whisperer. But, his mission is about a lot more than just chatter:
Gansbaai, South Africa (04 January 2024) — Xolani Lawo is something of Gansbaai’s very own Doctor Dolittle. Affectionately dubbed the ‘Penguin Whisperer’, this Senior Bird Rehabilitator is an inspiration to conservationists and sea lovers of all ages. And, it’s said that the penguins don’t mind him too much either.
Xolani, who hails from Mdantsane township in the Eastern Cape, has long been a protector of the penguins. Inspired by the difference rehabilitators can make in giving endangered species like African Penguins a fighting chance, it’s his job to help tip the odds of survival back in their favour.
But, Xolani may never have discovered his calling or incredible ability of communicating with the voiceless, had it not been for a bit of havoc.
It all began in 2006 when a younger Xolani worked as a Lighthouse Guide in Cape St Francis. After a reported oil spill happened, he took it upon himself to offer his help in cleaning the penguins who had been impacted by the spill. It was during this aftermath that he discovered his knack for understanding the seabirds. And the rest is happy history!
Xolani and the rest of the team at the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary (APSS) are amongst many other animal heroes in our country who work tirelessly to help, heal and give hope to wildlife from plains to sea floors.
Sources: Buffalo City Tourism
Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google.
Have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:
Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.
by 