Penguins

Would you have ever thought that there would be penguins in South Africa? Me neither, but there are Africa Penguins, formerly known as Jackass Penguins. I can tell you that they really do make a braying sound. I have a video of them that I’ll post when I get home. For now, you’ll just have to take my word for it.

They have kind of an interesting story. First of all, did you know that all species of penguins all live in the southern hemisphere? I didn’t, but according to the guide that is the case. Anyway, penguins apparently typically live on islands and this breed did too. Then, there was an attack of seals and they were practically killed off as a species. They, without human intervention, relocated to the mainland where they are today. Somehow they knew that they needed to relocate in order to preserve their species. Pretty smart, huh?

At some point earlier on the tour we had heard that the various breeds of antelope only breed if there are predators and sufficient food. They seem to instinctively know how to preserve their species and, unlike us, they follow those instincts!

Okay - On to the botanical gardens!