Letter of the Week
wildlife
×
conservation × biodiversity
About the Archivist
The PACFV archive is maintained by a small group of individuals who spend time observing and recording penguin behavior across different conditions.
Their work is not coordinated as formal research, but follows a shared approach to documenting what is seen.
Latest Additions
PACFV #078 Coastal / Local
Isolated circling behaviour near shoreline edge
Location: Simon’s Town, Cape Town, South Africa
Species: African Penguin
Date: 14 June 2025
Time: 16:40 (local)
Conditions: Light wind, low surf, moderate visibility
A single penguin was observed at the edge of a small group positioned near the shoreline.
While the group remained largely stationary, the individual separated slightly and began moving in a loose circular path, returning repeatedly to roughly the same point. The movement was not aligned with the direction of the waterline or the group’s orientation.
This pattern continued for several cycles (estimated 6–8), with no clear change in pace or direction. The penguin did not vocalise during this period and did not rejoin the group immediately afterward.
No obvious external disturbance was noted. – E.D