The Marine Dynamics Team had the honour of meeting Dion George, Minister of Environment, Forestry, and Fisheries, today. It was a great opportunity to gather around the table and share the important conservation work we do at the Dyer Island Conservation Trust. We showcased our non-consumptive marine eco-tourism operations, such as boat-based whale watching and diving with bronze whaler sharks. Additionally, we discussed critical marine issues, including the plight of the endangered African Penguins.
Xolani Lawu, Senior Bird Rehabilitator at the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary, took Minister Dion at a tour at the sanctuary, explaining the importance of the artificial penguin nests, being distributed to all other African Penguin colonies in Africa. The minister was impressed to learn more about the nest project that has been going for more than a decade, making a huge contribution to protecting our African Penguins and their chicks.
At the penguin nest factory, based at the APSS, we manufacture 5 penguin homes each day. Each nest hand-crafted from an eco-friendly material. The design mimics the ideal nesting conditions these vulnerable seabirds need to breed successfully.
Minister Dion George watching the African Penguins on Dyer Island, via cameras Marine Dynamics installed.
With fewer than 1000 breeding pairs remaining on the island, the population is at a critical point, our initiative will make a positive difference. Improved “housing” contributes to better breeding outcomes. #EveryPenguinCounts.
Minister George, who is passionate about protecting our environment and marine life, was impressed with the work we are doing at the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary. He recognizes that “Every Bird Counts.”
Thank you for your time, Minister George. We are excited to continue working alongside you to better protect our marine life—for both those who live in it and those who depend on it for their livelihood.
A Big thank you to our Mayor, Dr Annelie Rabie for arranging this important engagement with the Minister, recognising the importance of Gansbaai- as well as Kleinbaai harbours.
You can also help us to create more homes for the African Penguin!
Or pop in at the APSS the visit the nest factory.
