Penguin release! Marine Big 5 daily blog
Written by October 16 2020
Due to some strong easterly wind in the morning we launched a little later today, this however didn’t affect the great sightings we had throughout the tour. Just passed the reef system, which is stretching from the mainland to Dyer Island we spotted our first Southern Right whale cow calf pair swimming alongside the thick kelp forest. The calf was very curious and came a little closer to have a look at us while the mother never left its side. After having some great looks at the pair, we moved on to Pearly Beach, where we found another mother and her young closer to shore. Our next stop was Geyser Rock to see the Cape Fur seal colony just behind Dyer Island. Every day we see more and more big bulls on the island trying to defend their territory and the females around them. Before heading back home to Kleinbaai we had a last stop at Dyer Island. As usual we approached the island a little closer to see some seabirds, but todays stop was special as we released two African penguins who have been at the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary here in Kleinbaai for rehabilitation. We were so happy to be part of this exciting moment and will cherish it for a long time.
What species did we see today?
African Penguin African Penguin
As one of only 17 penguin species left in the world (and the only one on the african continent), the african penguin often breed in offshore colonies, such as Dyer Island.
Southern Right Whale Southern Right Whale
These gentle giants are one of the strongest draws for our visitors, as thousands come back every year to experience the majesty of the Southern Right Whale.
Cape fur seal Cape fur seal
With a local population of 60,000, it's no wonder our guests capture so many photographs of these wonderfully playful marine mammals.
Cape Cormorant Cape Cormorant
One of the most famous species of Cormorant in the Western Cape, the Cape Cormorant is well known for it's beautiful turquoise eye and impressive size.
