14 Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) were reintroduced into their habitat natural in Praia do Moçambique, in Florianópolis, Brazil. This event represented the third release organized during the year by the R3 Animal Association, as part of the Santos Basin Beach Monitoring Project (PMP-BS).
The birds, after intense rehabilitation, have resumed their migration towards the breeding colonies in Patagonia, following the sea currents. Every year, during the autumn and winter of the Southern Hemisphere, Magellanic penguins they move thousands of kilometers looking for food in warmer waters.
However, migration is full of dangers, especially for inexperienced young people, who often they run aground on the Brazilian coast. Many arrive exhausted, malnourished or with signs of drowning. In 2024, of the 2,685 reports of penguins on the beaches of Santa Catarina, only 5.6% were found alive.
The encounter with two southern right whales
The recovery process managed by the R3 Animal Association is meticulous. The penguins are coming hydrate, fed to restore ideal weight e treated for hypothermia. They also participate in physiotherapy sessions in the pool, which helps them regain strength and stamina. Once ready, they are released into groups of at least ten individuals, a behavior that simulates their gregarious life and favors successful migration.
This time the release was particularly exciting, with the penguins returning to the wild met two southern right whales (Eubalaena australis) off the beach. This natural spectacle represented a symbol of hope and harmony between species.
The R3 Animal Association underlines the importance of these interventions to preserve biodiversity and raise awareness about respect for marine ecosystems. Each reinstated penguin represents a victory for wildlife and a testament to the collective work of scientists, volunteers and local communities.
The organization also invites everyone to reflect on anthropogenic threatssuch as pollution and intensive fishing, which compromise survival of many marine species. Events like this release remind us how important it is to protect the delicate balance of nature.
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