African Penguin
Spheniscus demersus
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Size
Up to 3.5kg
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Threat
Climate Change
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Distribution
South Africa
Boulders Beach is home to our colony of African Penguins, inspired by the famous coastal reserve where these remarkable birds are found in the wild. This unique habitat recreates the natural beauty of their South African home, featuring sandy shores, rocky beaches, sheltered areas and a spacious pool designed to reflect the coastal environment where African Penguins live, nest and thrive.
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Where in the park?
Discover the world of Boulders Beach, inspired by the iconic South African coastal reserve renowned for its African penguin colony. Step into a unique coastal habitat that celebrates these remarkable birds and the important role conservation plays in protecting their future.
Boulders Beach
The reserve is named Boulders Beach after the Beach in Simon’s Town, South Africa which is home to the Boulders Penguin Colony. It was established with a breeding pair in 1982 with numbers then increasing from island colonies.
The spectacular Boulders Beach Penguin Pool contains over half a million litres of water.
Species
Native to the south-western coast of Africa, the African Penguin is the only Penguin species found on the continent. Their natural habitat ranges from Namibia to South Africa, where they live on rocky coastlines and islands. African Penguins are well adapted to life in the ocean and are excellent swimmers, feeding mainly on fish and squid. However, their population has declined due to threats such as habitat loss, food shortages, and changes in the marine environment. Conservation efforts are helping to protect this endangered species and support their recovery.
Did you know?
African Penguins make a noise that sounds like Donkey's are sometimes referred to as Jackass Penguins.
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