The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (Sanccob) confirmed that the first African Penguin has tested positive for high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI), marking a serious new development in the ongoing outbreak among Western Cape seabirds.
In August almost 1 000 seabirds have now been confirmed with HPAI, and the spread remains deeply concerning.
TygerBurger previously reported that since early July, a new outbreak of HPAI has been confirmed in wild seabirds across the province — the first wild-bird detections since April 2024.
Infected birds often display neurological signs, such as tremors, head twitches, and seizures.
While HPAI occasionally infects mammals and humans, experts emphasise that the risk to the public remains very low when basic safety precautions are followed.
Testing and containment
Sanccob confirmed that its teams are working “diligently and cautiously” to ensure that all seabirds entering rehabilitation facilities are tested and cleared before admission.
“Our highest priority is keeping our seabird hospitals infection-free and ensuring every case is accurately recorded,” said Sanccob spokesperson Dr Katta Ludynia in a statement.
“This is a fast-moving situation, and we are working closely with the State Veterinary Services and conservation authorities to respond effectively.”
The organisation continues to support wild responders, monitor the impact on wild populations, and provide training and guidance to other rehabilitation centres and veterinarians.
Public urged not to handle birds
The public are urged not to pick up or handle sick or dead birds under any circumstances. Instead, cases should be reported immediately to the correct authorities.
For seabirds:
Sanccob – 021 557 6155 (landline) or 078 638 3631 (cell/WhatsApp)
. For non-seabird species:
Use the online reporting tool: DFFE Avian Influenza Reporting Form.
Residents are also reminded to keep pets away from affected birds and to report any sightings promptly to help authorities map and contain the outbreak.
“Every report helps us respond faster and prevent further infections,” said Ludynia. “The public plays a vital role in helping protect South Africa’s vulnerable seabird populations.”
Which birds are affected?
By early August, most confirmed cases were among Hartlaub’s Gulls, though Great White Pelicans, Grey-headed Gulls, Kelp Gulls, Whitebreasted Cormorants, Crowned Cormorants, and Sacred Ibises have also been affected.
Domestic chickens and ducks have tested positive too.
The type of virus circulating, H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b, is known to cause rapid and severe illness in birds.
Infected seabirds may appear unusually tame, unable to fly or walk, or show signs of twitching, seizures, or cloudy eyes.
Sadly, birds showing symptoms cannot be treated and are humanely euthanised to prevent further spread.
How the public can help
Members of the public are asked to:
- Report any sick or dead seabirds immediately to Sanccob;
- use the official DFFE form for other bird species;
- not attempt to pick up or move birds;
- keep pets away from beaches or areas where birds appear ill.
If you have handled a dead or sick bird, wash hands and surfaces thoroughly with soap and water, disinfect with diluted bleach, and wash clothes before resuming contact with any domestic birds.
“We can all play a part in limiting the spread,” Sanccob said in a statement.
. For updates and information on how to assist Sanccob’s work or to volunteer your time to help, visit https://tr.ee/SaveThePenguins
