The first record of Cape Clawless Otters Aonyx capensis predating on African Penguins Spheniscus demersus
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Date
2025
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Taylor&Francis
Abstract
The African Penguin Spheniscus demersus, a critically endangered seabird endemic to southern Africa, faces substantial threats from terrestrial predators at its mainland colonies. Correct identification of the predator species is essential for effective conservation management. This study provides the first documented evidence of Cape Clawless Otter Aonyx capensis predation on African Penguins. We describe characteristic lesion patterns distinguishing otter predation from other predators, such as Caracal Caracal caracal. These findings underscore the importance of accurate predator identification to guide targeted mitigation strategies and highlight the need for adaptive management to protect vulnerable mainland African Penguin colonies from emerging predation pressures.
Description
Keywords
Conservation threats, Mainland penguin colonies, Necropsy, Predation
Citation
Snyman, A., Purves, A., Kock, A., Mashau, M.H., Rodgers, F. and Ludynia, K., 2025. The first record of Cape Clawless Otters Aonyx capensis predating on African Penguins Spheniscus demersus. Ostrich, pp.1-5.