Science News · Science

Peru's Penguins Face Extinction Risk

Humboldt penguins in Peru's Punta San Juan reserve are critically endangered due to disease, climate change, and overfishing, with a potential "super" El Niño posing a severe new threat.

Once home to over 3,000 Humboldt penguins, Punta San Juan's population has plummeted to under 500. Avian flu and El Niño, which warmed Pacific waters and pushed anchovies offshore, have decimated populations. Industrial fishing further strained resources.

Ecologist Susana Cárdenas-Alayza notes disease and climate events are beyond her control. A potential "super" El Niño threatens the reserve. Observations show only five penguins and abandoned nests, indicating food scarcity leads to failed reproduction or abandonment.

The decline impacts volunteers who monitor populations and build nests. A "penguin patrol" protected penguins from guano harvesters. Despite challenges, Cárdenas-Alayza is hopeful due to the species' tendency to return to their territory.

Biologist Patricia Majluf noted resilience after the 1997-98 El Niño, which impacted sea lions and seals and reduced penguin numbers. Recovery occurred, aided by reduced anchovy fishing quotas in 2006.

Scientists advocate for stricter fishing quotas and ecosystem restoration strategies involving communities and businesses.

Conservation efforts include reinforcing a protective wall, trapping invasive predators, and using AI for data analysis from remote cameras.

The conservation of Punta San Juan highlights the importance of relationships alongside science in saving the penguins.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.