We all love animals. This especially holds true for us vegans. So it comes as no surprise when we are captivated by the sight of the local wildlife wherever we may travel across this vast world of ours.
I hold such fond memories of my vacation to Capetown, South Africa a few years ago. One of the indigenous animals that captured my heart, was the penguins! There are few places in the world that penguins may call “home”. The southern region of South Africa is indeed one of them. My itinerary included a must-see visit to Boulder’s Beach where the penguin colony is found.
From a platform above the beach area, I first encountered the penguins gathered on the sandy shore. There appeared to be at least one hundred of these precious creatures.
As I glanced to my left, I noticed a great number of penguins perched upon rocks and boulders of varying sizes.
One observes various behavior patterns emerging when watching them over time. Several penguins seemed to wander off independently on their own to explore the landscape. One commenced walking about the twigs, seaweed, and barnacles that had washed ashore.
Eventually, he dug a small hole between a couple of the branches. Just having some solo fun, while playing around to pass the time of day, I suppose.
I even observed that some penguins had broken off into pairs…coupling up as companions as they strolled the sandy beach closely together. How adorable is THAT!
Meanwhile back at the rocky cove, a delegation of the tuxedoed gents had wandered onto the beach. Perhaps, they wanted to experience the cool beach waters or feel the luxurious soft sand stroking their feet. One little guy looked to be doing a belly flop.
Towards the shoreline, quite a few penguins were congregating. This was a happening place! A few were gathered together in a small group. Others appeared to standing face to face in pairs, as if they were conversing with one another. One or two were standing solo observing their furry friends and the beautiful landscape.
Moments later, I experienced what was to be the two most heartwarming memories of that day. As I glanced back down towards the sandy beach, I noticed that every one of the penguins had tilted their head to a diagonal slant with their beak wide open. In other words, it gave the impression that they were either singing or somehow communicating with each other! Honk! Honk!, could be heard emanating from their mouths! Picture-perfect sight to behold!
My afternoon tour was winding down, yet one additional surprise was to cross my path. I glanced down upon the edge of the beach from the sidewalk and it was then that I observed a penguin that had just given birth! A fuzzy little baby was leaning against her warm and furry belly. What a precious end to my day at the penguin colony!
