African Penguins Face Extinction by 2035 Amid 97% Population Decline

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African Penguins face extinction by 2035, with population declining 97% to fewer than 10,000 breeding pairs remaining in the wild.

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The African Penguin becomes first among 18 global penguin species to reach Critically Endangered status in late 2024.

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Commercial fishing near breeding colonies severely limits sardine and anchovy access, affecting penguin survival and breeding success.

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Survey reveals 64% South Africans unaware of penguin's critical status, while 82% would support politicians prioritizing wildlife protection.

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Legal action launched by Biodiversity Law Centre against Minister of Environment challenges fishing restrictions around penguin colonies.

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Tourism value of penguin colonies generates between R613 million to R2.702 billion yearly for South African economy.

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53% respondents blame human activities like overfishing and pollution for species decline, with 49% saying national government bears responsibility.

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Current no-take zones prove inadequate for penguin conservation, according to seabird scientists' research.

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SANCCOB and BirdLife South Africa spearhead conservation efforts through legal action for greater species protection.

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OnlyOne petition garners over 27,800 signatures, rallying international support for stronger government action to protect African Penguins.

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