Earthwatch staff member Yoka Heijstek went on the South African Penguin
project in April of 2005. Together with fellow staff member Amanda
D'Aiuto, we held a teleconference for people interested in the project.
The following is a transcript of that session.
South African Penguins
Other teleconference Q&A's
Q: What was one of the highlights of this expedition for you?
A: Definitely being able to walk around in the penguin colony on the protected areas of the island. Tourists usually come to the island to see the prison where Nelson Mandela was held, and they can watch the penguins from a platform, but I got to get very close to the birds. I also loved learning so much about penguin behavior: They partner for life, and care for their chicks very well. They also make their own penguin highways on the island. They hop out of the water, check their feathers, get it together, then walk around on these paths that they made. It was so interesting!
Q: Is the weather similar to that in the U.S.?
A: In June, the temperature can go from the 60's at night to the 80's during the day. There may be some rain, usually a shower in the afternoon, because June is in the shoulder season for rain. Bring a rain jacket, because you'll be out and about every day on this project. It's best to layer clothing. Sturdy boots are really helpful, too.
Q: Will I be able to do my laundry there?
A: Yes, laundry facilities are available. It's best to pack light, just a few sets of clothes, and wash them there as you need to. It's good to bring old shirts, because the penguins are marked with a yellow paint, which can get on your clothes. You'll find a packing list and more details on the laundry situation in the briefing.
Q: Will we be able to handle the penguins?
A: You may be able to, though the researchers minimize handling of the birds so as not to disturb them. If you do want to, you should bring thick, sturdy gloves. The birds don't like to be touched, and their beaks go right through thin gloves.
Q: Will we have time off of the project to explore?
A: Yes, there is a weekend off. Some people choose to explore Cape Town, and others like to stay on the island. I stayed on the island and took pictures of the penguin colonies. You can also take the tour of the prison, which is interesting because the tour guides used to be prisoners there.
Q: Will we have to prepare our own food?
A: The volunteers take turns with kitchen duties, including cooking. The food is brought from the main land, and can include fruit, veggies, pasta, etc.
Q: Is there couples accommodation on this project?
A: It depends on the team layout. Volunteers are divided by gender into the rooms, so it may work out that a couple can be accommodated.
Q: What are some things we should definitely pack?
A: Binoculars are key to seeing the bands on the penguins. The research center has a telescope, but you'll want to see them with your own binoculars. Bring hiking boots, because you'll be walking every day. There are a certain number of miles of transects that have to be monitored every day. There are nesting boxes everywhere, in old buildings and in the open, so you have to keep an eye out. Bring a camera with lots of film /memory . Your clothes should be quick-drying, with lots of pockets. You'll need to bring a backpack to carry around during the day. Bring snacks! You can get hungry out there.
Q: Were bugs a problem?
A: Bugs weren't a problem when I went in April.
Q: What did you wish you took with you that you didn't?
A: Luckily, I was well-prepared and packed accordingly. I may have wanted a headlamp to keep my hands free at night, but you don't do transects at night, so you may not need it.
Q: I'm concerned about vaccinations and the safety of the drinking water.
A: The drinking water is safe, but it doesn't always taste good. You may want to bring Crystal Light packets to add to mask the taste. As for vaccinations, you should contact your doctor or a travel clinic for specific information.
Q: Can we swim in the ocean?
A: As I remember, the water was very cold. It's possible to swim, but it would be uncomfortable. You will have the opportunity to swim in Cape Town.
Q: Do I need a visa?
A: American citizens don't need a visa to get into South Africa, but we have heard that you need 2 empty pages back-to-back in your passport.
Q: Is there anything else we should know about this project?
A: You will see so many penguins! That's what you're here to see, and you will not be disappointed. Studying them is very satisfying.