#doDifferent, One Rescue at a Time
In a world where it's easy to feel overwhelmed by environmental challenges, there are organisations making a tangible difference. One such beacon of hope is the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), working tirelessly in South Africa to protect and reverse the decline of seabird populations, especially the endangered African penguin.
SANCCOB's mission is clear: to rescue, rehabilitate, and release ill, injured, abandoned, and oiled seabirds. They operate a 24/7 rescue service, responding to oil spills and providing expert care. Each year, they help an average of 2,500 seabirds. One of their most heartwarming initiatives is their specialist chick rearing unit, where abandoned African penguin eggs and chicks are given a second chance at life. In 2024, they released hundreds of African Penguins and chicks. Specifically, they admitted 813 African Penguins with an average release rate of 80%, and they had an 84% release rate for the 496 chicks they took in. To date, SANCCOB has admitted 108,715 seabirds.
SANCCOB's impact extends beyond immediate rescue efforts. They are deeply involved in:
Education: Offering lessons and tours to raise awareness.
Training: Providing internships and exchange programs to cultivate future conservationists.
Research: Conducting ongoing studies to understand seabird behavior and the threats they face.
Conservation: Employing staff to monitor seabird colonies and ensure their long-term survival.
SANCCOB, in collaboration with BirdLife South Africa, actively engages in legal challenges to protect African penguins, addressing critical issues like competition with the fishing industry. Their dedication is a testament to the fact that conservation requires a multifaceted approach.
SANCCOB's work is vital, and you can support them in several ways:
Donate: Your contribution can directly fund rescue and rehabilitation efforts.
Volunteer: Get hands-on experience and contribute your time to seabird conservation.
Spread the Word: Share SANCCOB's story and raise awareness about the challenges facing seabirds.
By supporting SANCCOB, you're not just helping birds; you're investing in the health and biodiversity of our planet.
