ith winter fast approaching, we need to be prepared to respond immediately to the threat of deadly oil spills being washed ashore by strong winds and storms.

Last August, an unexpected oil spill in Algoa Bay in the Eastern Cape  threatened the lives of penguins in two of the biggest African penguin colonies in the world. The spill resulted in more than 150 oiled African penguins and chicks being admitted to our Cape St Francis and Port Elizabeth Centres. Apart from being covered in toxic oil, the penguins were dehydrated and starving; the oil destroys the natural waterproofing of their feathers, making it impossible for them to swim and catch food.

SANCCOB’s trained staff and volunteers were ready at a moment’s notice to wash, feed and care for the oiled birds over the following 4-6 weeks until they had recovered sufficiently to be released back into the wild.

Fortunately disaster was avoided – because we were ready. Caring supporters like you donated much-needed funds so that we could purchase equipment, cleaning materials and veterinary supplies.

But there’s no way of knowing if and when disaster will strike again. Or how bad it will be.

What we do know is that after a major oil spill, response time is critical. The longer penguins and other seabirds spend in polluted water, the less chance they have of survival.

Please help us be prepared for the next oil spill by donating online now.

R250 will cover a Rehabilitation Kit consisting of syringes, electrolyte fluid and stainless steel bowls.
R500 will buy a Washing Kit that includes wash tubs, buckets, a measuring jug, antiseptic and toothbrushes.
R800 would help towards a Personal Protective Equipment Kit, containing oilskins, long-sleeved Nitrile gloves, gumboots, safety glasses, wetsuit arm protectors and a high visibility jacket.

With fewer than 23 000 breeding pairs of African penguins left in the wild, every oiled penguin must be saved. The survival of the species depends on it.

Donate online today to ensure that we are fully kitted and ready to launch our response team when disaster strikes.

You’ll help save a penguin’s life … and help ensure that this highly endangered species will once again thrive for generations to come. Thank you for caring!

Last year, caring members of the public helped us rescue, rehabilitate and release back into the wild more than 150 oiled African penguins. Partner with us: Donate towards equipment and supplies and be a part of the next rescue when it’s needed.

all us any time of the day or night. SANCCOB is a 24-hour Seabird Rescue Centre and will respond to all seabirds in distress, including African Penguins, Cape Gannets, Terns, Cormorants, Seagulls, Oystercatchers, Albatrosses, Petrels, Pelicans and other marine birds.

CAPE TOWN
+27 (0)21 557 6155
+27 (0) 78 638 3731 (after hours & weekends)

CAPE ST. FRANCIS
+27 (0)42 298 0160
+27 (0)82 890 0207 (after hours & weekends)

Depending on the nature of the injury and the location of the seabird, we will dispatch one of our own Rescue Units, offer stabilisation advice or put you in contact with the nearest organisation that can assist.

What to do when you find an injured/sick/oiled seabird:

• Please approach any seabird with care – some, such as Cape Gannets and African Penguins, have sharp beaks.
• Have with you a towel or blanket and wear protection over your hands and eyes.
• Throw the towel or blanket over the bird to catch it, ensuring that the bird is able to breathe.
• Place the bird in a large box if you have one, after first ensuring that there are holes for air.
• Keep the bird in a warm quiet place until help arrives