Artificial nests introduced to enhance Boulders penguins’ breeding prospects
TO HELP the Boulders Penguin Colony within the Table Mountain National Park (TMNP), conservationists recently embarked on a new nest development project, with rangers removing and replacing 58 artificial nest boxes to improve breeding conditions for the African penguin species.
SANParks said these new nesting hides are essential for colonies that are greatly exposed to predation and various environmental factors. “Replacing lost habitat with artificial nesting structures is considered to be a useful conservation intervention given the decline of the species,” SANParks said.
The nest boxes were first introduced to Boulders in 2003, when 62 of the formacrete nest boxes were installed. The concern regarding this prototype was the size of the formacrete nest box, SANParks said, therefore it was concluded that this prototype offered less protection.
There have been a number of iterations over the years, with continual adaptations based on efficacy and on-site monitoring.
Cape Research Centre marine biologist Alison Kock said the nest boxes provide safety from predators and limit exposure to adverse weather conditions, including extreme heat and heavy rain leading to floods.
“The overall population of the African penguin is declining and various interventions are in place to assist with increasing their numbers. It is believed that providing artificial nests will assist in the breeding success of the African Penguin and therefore assist in increasing the overall population of the African penguin,” Kock said.
After much consideration, the latest design is made of a geotextile fabric that is both non-toxic and environmentally friendly. This prototype is based on measurements of naturally dug burrows made of guano.
About 50 of these latest nest boxes were installed at Boulders at the end of January. “This project is ongoing and will be monitored carefully to determine the efficacy of the design and nesting success. The outcomes of this monitoring will be assessed and potentially incorporated into new designs,” SANParks said.