In a heartwarming “full-circle” moment, nine African penguins, rescued and rehabilitated by SANCCOB, were released back into the wild, marking a significant victory for marine conservation.
Cape Town, South Africa (18 August 2025) – We just love a good full circle moment! And last week, one took place on the sandy shores of Betty’s Bay when nine African Penguins got to reunite with the beautiful Stony Point Penguin Colony.
Following months of extensive care and rehabilitation at the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), dedicated team members sporting the biggest smiles and holding back tears of joy got to witness the fruits of their labour culminate in a most rewarding moment and step forward for marine conservation.
A video shared by SANCCOB shows the team carefully moving large boxes from their bakkie to the beach before opening them to reveal the penguins they had dedicated so much effort to treating and preparing for rewilding.
The real magic took place when the birds were guided out of their boxes and onto the beach, where they walked together into the water before swimming into the horizon to continue their life in their ocean home as they were always destined to.
“Each one is a step closer to protecting this critically endangered species, and we’re so proud to be part of their journey,” SANCCOB said.
SANCCOB prides itself on reversing the decline of seabird populations through the rescue, rehabilitation and release of ill, injured, abandoned and oiled seabirds – especially critically endangered species like the African penguin.
The recent release, which also included that of one Cape Cormorant, is a win for both these dedicated conservationists and the feathery sea creatures they work so tirelessly to protect.
The organisation thanks its supporters, volunteers, and conservation partners who make moments like this possible.
To get involved and make your contribution to saving our seabirds, call 021 557 6155 or visit the website here.
Sources: SANCCOB
Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google.
Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:
Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.