Bowie, a young penguin, was found stranded at Salt Rock beach last week Sunday, by the Mammal and Bird Department at uShaka Sea World.
Kelly de Klerk, uShaka Sea World Lead Animal Care Specialist, said Bowie was found thin and dehydrated with bite marks on his left wing and right shoulder.
She said an X-ray showed he had no broken bones.
The staff at uShaka Sea World, have named him Bowie after 70’s rock star David Bowie.
“I am confident that Bowie will reach his goal weight within the next 3 weeks as he is already eating 9 sardines a day. He is a gentle penguin who seems focussed 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. I feel honoured to be Bowie’s caregiver and look forward to every interaction I have with him” said Kelly de Klerk.
If you spot a penguin on any of KZN’s beaches, please contact the 24-hour hotline number : 031 3288222.
Picture: Supplied