Established in 1968, the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) is a registered non-profit organisation dedicated to reversing the decline of seabird populations through conservation and protection of the marine environment, with a particular focus on the Critically Endangered African Penguin.

With centres in Cape Town and Gqeberha, SANCCOB provides specialized veterinary care and rehabilitation for injured, ill, oiled, abandoned seabirds, with the aim of releasing them back into the wild. Its work also includes artificial incubation and chick rearing, conservation support, environmental education and raising awareness about the threats facing seabirds and their marine environment.

To date, SANCCOB has admitted more than 110,000 seabirds and released over 71,000 back into the wild. However, with seabird populations facing increasing pressure from food shortages, climate change, pollution and other threats, continued support is essential to ensure that SANCCOB can provide care to seabirds in need and contribute to the long-term conservation of these remarkable species.

As a non-profit organization, SANCCOB relies on the generosity of individuals, businesses and conservation partners to sustain its work. There are several ways to make a difference, including individual donations, adopting a penguin, supporting education, internship, skills development projects and contributing goods or services. (Contact Jessica Van Dyk: [email protected] for a detailed breakdown of each programme).

SANCCOB has also recently launched an online auction, running until 1 January 2027, offering another opportunity for the public to support seabird conservation while bidding on a variety of exciting prizes. Every contribution helps SANCCOB continue its vital work to rescue, rehabilitate and protect seabirds 

Explore the items on auction and place your bid - SANCCOB Online Store

Together, we can help build a future where seabirds and people live together in ecological sustainability.