AP074 is back on his feet and making steady progress, but it also means his feet are getting sore, so the team have made adjustments to help him cope.
South Africa (22 July 2024) – AP074 has been making slow yet steady progress thanks to the intervention of the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB). The Bateleurs recently shared an update from SANCCOB, sharing that he is up and on his feet, however being on the go has meant his feet are blistering, so they are helping him heal in comfort.
The penguin, number AP074, was rescued from the Stony Point penguin colony on February 13th this year. He was found head curled to one side, weak, afraid, and alone. His head and neck were swollen and his breathing was laboured. He was taken to the SANCCOB Seabird Hospital in Table View, Cape Town.
Upon admission, the SANCCOB veterinarians diagnosed AP074 with Scoliosis, a sideways curvature of the spine that can be both, painful and disabling.
It was clear that the diagnosis didn’t come about as a birth defect but due to an attack from a predator. A CT scan revealed that a number of vertebrae near the top of the bird’s back had been previously crushed and healed incorrectly.
His name is his rescue number because the hope is to return him to the wild. His treatment has been going well and progress is being made. He is facing challenges, but the little penguin is waddling along with his rehabilitators, working hard to get back on his feet once and for all!
“26 June 2024 marks APO74’s 133th day with us. Progress is slow and steady. Along with the Scoliosis, AP074 has developed blisters on its feet. Our rehabilitation team has temporarily moved AP074 to our Home Pen, the perfect place for any penguin’s feet to heal! With hurdles thrown straight at this beloved penguin, AP074 is determined to come out fighting…” – SANCCOB
They welcome donations in support of AP074’s journey. Those wanting to support this determined little penguin can do so here.
by 