60,000 African penguins starved to death after sardine numbers collapsed

Climate crisis and overfishing contributed to the loss of 95% of penguins in two breeding colonies in South Africa, research finds.

Researchers warn that sardine declines, driven by climate variability and fishing pressure, left African penguins unable to find sufficient food, leading to mass starvation in two key breeding sites.

Key points

The study documents a drastic drop in penguin numbers at two South African colonies.
A combination of climate change and overfishing reduced sardine stocks, the penguins’ main prey.
Mass mortality occurred as chicks and adults struggled to obtain adequate nourishment.

Supporting details

The report links sardine population collapse to shifts in sea conditions and industrial fishing practices.
Conservationists emphasize the need for urgent management of sardine fisheries and broader climate adaptation measures to protect penguin colonies.

Quotes

“Climate crisis and overfishing contributed to the loss of 95% of penguins in two breeding colonies in South Africa, research finds.”

Context

The findings highlight how predator-prey dynamics in marine ecosystems respond rapidly to environmental stressors.
The situation underscores the interconnectedness of climate policy, fisheries management, and wildlife conservation.

Author's summary A climate-driven drop in sardines and unsustainable fishing led to severe penguin declines in South Africa, illustrating urgent needs in fisheries governance and habitat protection.

The Guardian — 2025-12-06

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