BirdLife South Africa and SANCCOB have achieved a court ruling granting protection to endangered African penguins, establishing no-take zones around six breeding colonies. The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is tasked with implementing the order swiftly. This initiative aims to prevent extinction and safeguard marine ecosystems critical for the penguins’ survival.
Efforts by BirdLife South Africa and the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) have culminated in a significant victory for the critically endangered African penguin in South Africa. The Pretoria High Court, presided over by Deputy Judge President Ledwaba, has granted protection to this species through a newly issued court order. This order follows a settlement agreement reached between conservation organizations and commercial sardine and anchovy fishers, with endorsement from the state.
The settlement establishes no-take zones around six essential breeding colonies for African penguins, ensuring critical foraging areas along the west coast, southern Cape, and Algoa Bay regions. The designated closures include a 20 km radius around Robben Island, Stony Point, Bird Island, and St Croix Island, in addition to existing protections around Dassen Island and a split zone closure at Dyer Island. These measures are vital for preventing further decline of the species.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) is required to implement these closures within two weeks by amending the permit conditions for commercial fishers. This framework will be reviewed annually until 2035, the year scientists predict potential extinction of the African penguin. Conservation organizations have expressed their satisfaction with the ruling, viewing it as a critical advancement.
Craig Smith, a senior marine specialist with WWF South Africa, lauded the agreement and emphasized the need for swift execution in light of the upcoming breeding season. Kate Handley, executive director of the Biodiversity Law Centre, acknowledged the resolution of the dispute as beneficial for both conservation and industry, stressing the importance of protecting the biodiversity of the oceans for future generations.
Dr. Alistair McInnes, BirdLife South Africa’s seabird conservation programme manager, hailed the court order as a pivotal moment in safeguarding the continent’s only penguin species, remarking that it would also protect the livelihoods of many who depend on marine ecosystems. Collaborative efforts centered on scientific solutions will be vital for the conservation of African penguins and the overall health of marine environments.
The recent court order in South Africa represents a significant step in the conservation of the endangered African penguin, establishing no-take zones to secure crucial foraging habitats. This protective measure has garnered approval from key conservation organizations and emphasizes the need for proactive government action to avert extinction. The collaborative efforts between conservation groups and the fishing industry serve as a promising model for future marine ecosystem management.
Original Source: witness.co.za
