Against all odds, a young African penguin named Charlie is on the mend after a terrifying shark attack.
Durban, South Africa (15 August 2024) – A young African Penguin is making a remarkable recovery after a brutal shark attack near Warner Beach, Durban.
Found in critical condition on the beach, the penguin, now named Charlie, is currently under the care of experts at uShaka Sea World.
“We are delighted to be able to share news on his progress as it certainly is good news. We had originally named this penguin Cher but changed his name to Charlie as we are now aware that she is, in fact, a he,” shared South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR) clinical veterinarian, Dr Caryl Knox.
Caryl explained that the shark bite was severe and that while Charlie wasn’t out of the woods just yet, his life no longer hung in the balance, and she was confident that he was on the road to recovery.
“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 excretion.”
Caryl skilfully placed Charlie under anaesthetic and performed surgery to repair his cloaca before repositioning it inside his body and carefully suturing the 11cm laceration.
“Charlie has a wonderful fighting spirit and has responded well after surgery. I am so relieved and in love with this little guy,” a smitten Caryl shared.
Speaking to the SABC, Sea World Lead Animal Care Specialist, Kelly de Klerk also commented on how Charlie’s strength and weight have increased from 1.6 kilograms to 3 kilograms.
Charlie is eating up to 10 sardines a day and swimming nicely as he continues to recover. He is monitored closely by dedicated marine experts.
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With every passing day, this little penguin’s strength and spirit continue to amaze, inspiring hope for his full recovery and eventual return to the wild.
Sources: South African Association for Marine Biological Research
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