Uplisted to Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature in late 2024, the African Penguin is the first penguin species [of the 18 globally] to meet the criteria for this classification.
Despite the urgent need for action, almost two-thirds [64%] of South Africans are oblivious that the African Penguin is Critically Endangered, while one in five [19%] admit they have no idea that the species could disappear in the next decade without intervention.
Data from the same poll of 2 000 South Africans, commissioned by Blue Marine, reveals a stark wake-up call for those in power.
A huge 82% of the sampled population would swing their vote for a party/politician that prioritises environmental causes such as the protection of endangered wildlife.
Additionally, almost half of respondents [49%] firmly believe the national government bears primary responsibility for protecting endangered species. A further one in five [19%] put the onus on the provincial and local government.
Image: eBird!