This year, 881 Magalhães Penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) were found stranded in the cities of Iguape, Ilha Comprido and Cananéia, on the coast of São Paulo, according to the balance of the Santos Basin Beaches Monitoring Project (PMP-BS) that monitors the animals. Only one of the birds was found alive – the other animals were in advanced decomposition stageaccording to the researchers.
Only this Tuesday (26), 39 penguins were found dead on the beaches of São Paulo-the largest number for a single day since last Friday (22), when 97 birds were recorded. The biggest mass enclosure happened the previous Tuesday (19), with 176 lifeless animals.
At least 3,342 penguins died on the Brazilian coast until last week. Animal analysis does not highlight parasitic possibility, infectious paintings and interaction with fishing as causing deaths.
Reason for deaths
“Magalhães Pinguins Migram from Argentine Patagonia to the Brazilian coast during winter in search of warmer waters. The long journey leaves the animals tired, disabled and vulnerable
Among the lack of food, hypothermia, diseases and interactions with human activities such as fishing. “This scenario of finding dead penguins this time of year is expected due to the migration of the species,” says Emanuel.
The expert explains that the number of animals that dies during migration varies from year to year – and depends on environmental factors and food availability at sea.
What to do when seeing a living penguin on the beach:
- If the animal is in the sea, it does not interfere; It may be passing through and the rescue is not yet authorized
- If the animal is sick in the sand, do not try to return it to the sea
- Never put the penguin in contact with the ice
- Avoid approaching the animal: it can get scared and try to go back to the sea
- Remove children, domestic and curious animals
