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Punta San Juan (PSJ) is a 54 hectare peninsula located on the southern coast of Peru, it is protected by a 1.2 kilometer concrete wall. PSJ is one of the 33 sites a network of sites called: “Reserva Nacional Sistema de Islas, Islotes y Puntas Guaneras” that protects marine biodiversity and stands on the shoulders of the 150+ year old management system of seabird guano promoted by the Peruvian government.
Punta San Juan (PSJ) supports important populations of emblematic seabirds of the Humboldt Current, such as Humboldt Penguins, Guanay Cormorants, Inca Terns, Peruvian Boobies and Peruvian Pelicans. As well as pinnipeds, such as South American fur seal and South American sea lion. All these species breed and rear their chicks and pups in PSJ, and feed in areas close to the reserve that have nutrient-rich waters due to the upwelling ecosystem of the Humboldt Current System. These species are biological indicators and help us understand the variation of ecological factors over time. The population, behavior and reproduction of these species reflect what is happening in the marine ecosystem.
PSJ is home to Peru’s largest colony of Humboldt penguins, reaching over 7,000 birds in the past 10 years. Here, Humboldt penguins nest on the guano layer that has not been harvested since 1987. This substrate is ideal for Humboldt penguins, providing important properties that enhance breeding success. The proximate location of this protected area means cold and nutrient rich waters where penguins feed. This provide's a suite of conditions that are preferred by Humboldt penguin populations.
Punta San Juan Program operates thanks to the support of zoological societies from around the globe that want to contribute to conservation in the wild. Since 2000, the sponsorship from zoos and aquariums are the driving force behind the conservation efforts at Punta San Juan Program. Partner institutions participate in planning and supporting the core operations of Punta San Juan Research Station. Their funding covers the annual budget and employs the PSJ Program staff, a qualified team of Peruvians who are committed to conservation of the wildlife at this amazing protected area.
Bournemouth Oceanarium partnered with PSJ in 2022 which was essential to the PSJ program operations. The Oceanarium raised a whopping $5,000 for PSJ and continues to raise money for these vulnerable penguins with daily charity donations which are encouraged during penguin feeding presentations. The Oceanarium organised several fundraising challenges to help achieve these contributions, including a five-kilometre run in penguin onesies, a chilli sauce challenge, egg roulette and a skydive by our brave keepers! Conservation programmes such as PSJ play a significant role in driving the Oceanarium forward and reflects our passion for wildlife. No matter how small or big the donations are, each one is hugely appreciated as anyone who comes forward helps achieve our goal for this amazing cause.
The Oceanarium is now selling penguin adoption packs to raise further awareness about these vulnerable birds. Find out more information here.
If you would like to donate to this wonderful cause, please email info@oceanarium.co.uk for more information. We thank you for everyone's contributions!
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