Algoa Bay seabirds were rescued from an oil spill in November and are almost ready to be released; they join several birds who need a little help this festive season.
Gqeberha, South Africa (13 December 2021) – SANCCOB (Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds) have announced that the birds rescued during the Algoa Bay spill in November are nearly ready to be released again.
On the 17th November, 400 litres of heavy fuel oil spilled into the ocean in the Eastern Cape’s Algoa Bay from the Croatian-flagged, MV Solin. This is the third spill in the bay since 2016. There is growing concern that the area is becoming prone to spillage due to the rise in activity of the bay.
“We fear that as the industrialisation around Coega in Nelson Mandela Bay expands, so does the likelihood of it further affecting marine wildlife. In accordance with the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan, the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) swiftly initiated all relevant oil spill response teams after the spill, which included SANCCOB, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), SANParks, Transnet National Ports Authority and Xtreme Projects.
Containment and clean-up operations, including clean-up efforts along the shoreline, have since concluded and the demobilisation plan is commencing.”
A total of four seabirds were rescued during the clean-up efforts. Sadly, two didn’t make the journey but a Cape gannet and African penguin are currently at the SANCCOB Gqeberha branch.
The team has shared that the two birds are likely to be released soon, once their waterproof plumage meets release criteria.
Sighting of oiled seabirds can be reported to SANCCOB Gqeberha on 041 583 1830 or emergency after hours on 064 019 8936.
Adopt a Penguin
This holiday season, SANCCOB is encouraging people to adopt a penguin for someone they love.
The adoption will cover the cost of fish, medication, water and other essentials the bird needs to grow strong enough for release back into the wild.
There are currently 20 penguins up for adoption so you have loads of time to get that special someone the perfect gift. You can adopt a penguin here.
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