From Laws to Conservation: Protecting Seabirds in South Africa’s Coastal Waters
Seabird protection in South Africa is ensured through the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004), and the Sea birds and Seals Protection Act (No. 46 of 1973). These laws specifically address the conservation of biodiversity and safeguarding marine habitats and their inhabitants. The marine environment, covering 70% of the Earth’s surface, plays a vital role in supporting diverse species and providing valuable ecosystem services. Seabirds serve as essential bioindicators in marine ecosystems, being sensitive to pressures such as climate change and many are also top predators. Recognized as keystone species, they supply abundant nutrients, enhancing food quality and productivity.
South Africa supports many seabird species, with some being endemic, while others using South Africa has a breeding ground. These species include the African Penguin, Cape Cormorant, Cape Gannet, and Bank Cormorant (Figures 1 - 4), all of which are considered Endangered according to the IUCN Red List and can be found at CapeNature Nature Reserves like Stony Point and Bird Island Nature Reserve at Lambert’s Bay. Threats to seabirds include habitat loss, overfishing, oil spills and diseases with the 2021 High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza A (HPAI) H5N1 outbreak in the Western Cape amplifying concerns.
The HPAI H5N1 outbreak led to the tragic loss of many Cape Cormorants and African Penguins. However, collaborative efforts by organizations such as CapeNature, SANCCOB, and SANPARKS has been crucial in controlling the spread of the disease. These organizations have implemented biosecurity measures, including isolating infected seabirds from healthy individuals, raising public awareness about approaching infected seabirds, and managing infected carcasses, thus mitigating the impact of the outbreak. Overall, the conservation of seabirds and their habitats remains of the utmost importance to maintain the integrity and biodiversity of the marine ecosystem in South Africa.
An African Penguin (Spheniscus demersus, Endangered) at the Stony Point colony. Photographer: Marienne de Villiers.
Cape Cormorants (Phalacrocorax capensis, Endangered) are one of the seabird species that breed at Stony Point. Photographer: Keith Spencer.
Cape Gannets (Morus capensis, Endangered) greeting each other.
Nesting Bank Cormorant (Phalacrocorax neglectus, Endangered).
Related News
Spring into Serenity: Explore CapeNature’s Hidden Tranquil Outdoor Escapes!
As spring breathes new life into the landscape, it's the perfect time to explore CapeNature's captivating trails. With options suitable for hikers, walkers, or runners of all levels, you can enjoy the fresh air and vibrant scenery while creating lasting memories.
Heroes, not Villains
7 September 2024 is International Vulture Awareness Day, and CapeNature will be celebrating all vultures everywhere but especially the Cape Vultures that call De Hoop Nature Reserve home.
DFFE RAMSAR site visit and Ramsar information system (RIS) update
The Convention on Wetlands is a global intergovernmental treaty that provides the framework for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources. The Convention was adopted in the Iranian city of Ramsar in 1971 and came into force in 1975. South Africa, together with almost 90% of United Nations member states from all the world’s geographic regions, have agreed to become “Contracting Parties” committing to designating sites as Wetlands of International Importance.
Update on upcoming transitioning period, Cape Peninsula Baboon Advisory Group
The Cape Peninsula Baboon Management Joint Task Team (CPBMJTT) consisting of representatives from SANParks, CapeNature, and the City of Cape Town, wants to inform communities from baboon-affected areas that options are being initiated to enable a presence of baboon rangers during the upcoming transitioning period. In addition, if all goes as planned, the Cape Peninsula Baboon Advisory Group will be formally established next month.
CapeNature celebrates a decade of connecting communities to nature with Access Week 2024
CapeNature celebrates its 10th annual Access Week between the 21st and 27th of September 2024 this year. The public is invited to access any one of 25 selected Provincial nature reserves across the Western Cape for free during this time. Visitors will be allowed day entry at no cost to enjoy activities such as hiking, bird watching, swimming and mountain biking. CapeNature will also be facilitating a variety of programmes for various community groups during this period.
CapeNature and NRF-SAIAB Team Up for Marine Conservation in De Hoop MPA
In celebration of Marine Protected Area Day, celebrated annually on August 1, CapeNature and the National Research Foundation (NRF) are proud to highlight their ongoing efforts to protect marine life through the Acoustic Tracking Array Platform (ATAP) in the Western Cape’s Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).
How can I assist you today?
How can I assist you today?