The charismatic African penguins living in my neighbourhood are back in the news. A notice was put out last month by the South African National Parks board that a strain of avian influenza virus (H5N8 strain) has been detected in the colony at Boulders Beach. So far penguin eighteen deaths have been noted. The state veterinarians are working to contain the outbreak. Let’s hope they succeed.
Nature on the Edge 
A wonderful photo. That penguin on the left is checking the photographer out very quizzically.
Returning from a day at sea, they waddle ashore with great purpose, like ‘honey I’m home….’ and ‘who are you ms photographer?!’
How awful! I hope they are successful in containing the outbreak.
Not hearing any updates, so hoping that the birds are coping,
Oh, no! Great photo Liz. Better get more whilst they are still there. Poor old Cape, having a bad time lately.
Reading the latest Boulders population f
The latest population figures are a shock – down to 1700 (I must check if this is official) down from 3069 in 2014.
Ouch!
These birds really are the most enigmatic creatures. Yes, let’s hope the vets contain the flu.
Yes hoping they survive this latest threat.
The bird flu outbreak among these already severely threatened birds is a huge concern.
On a lighter note though, I wish I had neighbours like you, Liz…
Yes it will be tragic if more are affected. Yes, it’s quite the neighbourhood for colourful locals:).
Oh, no, not good. Hope they get it under control soon.
No recent updates – hoping it bodes well.
Oh not bird flu, so many problems in your neck of the woods lately 😦
It’s a worry! Can you believe that heavy rain and possibly flooding is expected tomorrow! ‘Never rains but it pours .’
So tragic to hear of the bird flu outbreak. I hope awareness and treatment came early and that there will be a positive outcome soon.
I agree with Lucid Gypsy… please, no more problems.
Here’s hoping! The sick birds are being quarantined but hearing that other seabirds – cormorants, swift terms are also infected – there’s much concern. So difficult to contain when wild populations have huge range.
That’s true. Very concerning that other species are also infected. I’m sad to hear that news…