Breeding behavior analysis in a large captive colony of African penguins (Spheniscus demersus) and its implications for population management and conservation.

ABSTRACT: The African penguin Spheniscus demersus, frequently housed in zoos, holds potential for future reintroduction efforts due to its declining wild population. This paper aims to explore various aspects of reproductive performance in African penguins within a large ex situ colony at Zoo Wrocław in Poland, covering 9 years of breeding behaviors. The analysis reveals parallels in colony growth and partner change patterns with those observed in the wild. Positive correlations were found between breeding success and pair-bond duration, with the increasing colony size influencing reproductive performance. Contrary to their wild counterparts, captive African penguins initiate breeding attempt and produce a fertilized egg at a younger age. However, successful breeding still requires gaining experienc

SUBMITTER: Borecki P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10864276 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature