The first African penguin in the Western Cape has tested positive for bird flu.
The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) confirmed the case, saying about 1,000 seabirds have been infected so far. The penguin, found near Simon’s Town, showed severe neurological symptoms and had to be euthanized.
According to SANCCOB, this is the only confirmed penguin case, but the virus may already be present in nearby colonies. “It could be a mild outbreak or spread further, which would be devastating for African penguins,” said spokesperson Robyn Fraser-Knowles.
At least 30 bird flu cases have been reported this month among seabirds along the Cape coast, including gulls, cormorants, and terns. The Western Cape Agriculture Department first confirmed the highly pathogenic strain on a duck farm near Paarl in July.
The public is urged not to touch or approach sick birds, as the virus can infect humans, though symptoms are mild.
What the public should know:
Report any sick or dead seabirds to SANCCOB immediately: 021 557 6155 or 078 638 3631. SANCCOB’s team is working hard to ensure an appropriate response for each affected bird and that every case is recorded and reported correctly
If the affected bird is not a seabird, use this form to report it to the state vet
Don’t attempt to pick up or handle birds yourself.
Keep your pets away from sick and dead birds
The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) confirmed the case, saying about 1,000 seabirds have been infected so far. The penguin, found near Simon’s Town, showed severe neurological symptoms and had to be euthanized.
According to SANCCOB, this is the only confirmed penguin case, but the virus may already be present in nearby colonies. “It could be a mild outbreak or spread further, which would be devastating for African penguins,” said spokesperson Robyn Fraser-Knowles.
At least 30 bird flu cases have been reported this month among seabirds along the Cape coast, including gulls, cormorants, and terns. The Western Cape Agriculture Department first confirmed the highly pathogenic strain on a duck farm near Paarl in July.
The public is urged not to touch or approach sick birds, as the virus can infect humans, though symptoms are mild.
What the public should know:
Report any sick or dead seabirds to SANCCOB immediately: 021 557 6155 or 078 638 3631. SANCCOB’s team is working hard to ensure an appropriate response for each affected bird and that every case is recorded and reported correctlyIf the affected bird is not a seabird, use this form to report it to the state vet Don’t attempt to pick up or handle birds yourself. Keep your pets away from sick and dead birds