During the 1930s, about 1.5 million adult African penguins lived along the coast of Southern Africa. Human activity has reduced their number by a staggering 90%. The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) works to reverse the decline in sea bird populations through the rescue, rehabilitation and release of oiled, ill and injured sea birds. Recent research shows that the African penguin population is 19% higher due to the efforts of SANCCOB.

A new hatchery for endangered African penguins will boost these conservation efforts. The project will upgrade SANCCOB's existing chick-rearing facility and create a hatchery where they can develop local expertise to hatch African penguin eggs and hand-rear chicks.