Shark-bitten penguin on the mend after being found almost lifeless on beach
Durban — An injured penguin that was found lying almost lifeless on a beach is on the mend at uShaka Sea World.
South African Association for Marine Biological Research (Saambr) spokesperson Ann Kunz said that last Wednesday, an injured penguin was found lying almost lifeless on the beach at Warner Beach, eManzimtoti.
She said due to the extent of the penguin’s injuries, at first they were hesitant to share his story as they did not think he would make it through the night.
“We are therefore delighted to be able to share news on his progress as it certainly is good news,” Kunz said.
She said they had originally named the penguin Cher but changed his name to Charlie as they now think that she is in fact a he.
“Although he is not totally out of the woods yet, his life is no longer hanging in the balance, and we are quietly confident that he is on the road to recovery,” Kunz said.
“Unfortunately, when the shark bit him, it not only lacerated his skin but pierced his cloaca which was protruding out of his body. The cloaca is a chamber where the urinary and faecal matter collects before being excreted.”
Kunz said their clinical veterinarian, Dr Caryl Knox, skilfully placed Charlie under anaesthetic and performed surgery to repair his cloaca before repositioning it inside his body and carefully suturing the 11cm laceration.
“On presentation the shark bite was severe and the prognosis for recovery was grave. Charlie has a wonderful fighting spirit and has responded well after surgery. I am so relieved and in love with this little guy,” Knox said.
Kunz added that after surgery, Charlie was given fluids, antibiotics and pain medication before being left to rest and recover.
“After a couple of hours of rest, he woke up feisty and hungry and we knew with immense relief that he had a fighting chance.
“He is currently eating 9 sardines a day and starting to stand up on his own, inquisitive of his surroundings,” Kunz said.
Meanwhile, two weeks ago, on July 14, the Mammal and Bird Department at uShaka Sea World admitted their second stranded penguin of the season.
Unfortunately, their first patient, young Ace, did not survive.
The second penguin was stranded on a Salt Rock beach.
The staff named him Bowie after ’70s rock star David Bowie.
On admission, the penguin was found to be thin and dehydrated with bite marks on his left wing and right shoulder. Thankfully, X-rays showed no broken bones. After an initial period of deep rest and rehydration, he woke up with a surprisingly ferocious appetite. He has put on half a kilogram since he arrived.
At the time, uShaka Sea World Lead Animal Care Specialist Kelly de Klerk said she is confident that Bowie will reach his goal weight within the next three weeks as he is already eating nine sardines a day. He is a gentle penguin who seems focused on regaining his strength whilst at the same time keeping himself nice and clean. He enjoys his baths and wipe-downs and tries hard to participate by clumsily attempting to preen himself.
If you come across a penguin on any KZN beach, it is most certainly out of its home range and in need of assistance. Please do not attempt to return the penguin to the ocean and contact them as soon as you are able on their 24-hour line – 031 328 8222.
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Daily News