A brief history of
Robben Island
And the habitats on Robben Island
he island is home to around 23 mammalian species, including Bontebok, Springbok, Steenbok, Fallow Deer and Eland. On the island there may also be found: Ostriches, Lizards, Geckos, Snakes and 3 different types of Tortoises. Think about the biodiversity we’d be destroying if we lost Robbenisland.
After being absent for about 180 years, in 1983, the African penguin Spheniscus demersus settled once again on Robben Island. The number of penguins have grown from 9 pairs in 1983 to 2,000 pairs in 1992, and more than 8,000 pairs in 2004, which has decreased in recent years to 1600 pairs. In 1983, the breeding area was only a few square meters, but by 1996 it had expanded to more than 55 hectares. Birds nest under trees or bushes mainly in the north and east of the island.
Wild animals are everywhere on the island. Rabbits hop through the bushes, and deer roam freely without boundaries or fences. Even if you don't see them, there is evidence of animals everywhere.
Birds are also very abundant, about 74 species of birds, including cormorants, seagulls and lapwings, stretch and thrive on the uninhabited coastline.
T
'The original colony of African Penguins on Robben Island was exterminated by about 1800'
In 2017, there were 49 738 visitors who reported touring to Robben Island to see the penguins, making them undeniably not only quite a source of income for South Africa, but also a great source of entertainment and fun for locals who are visiting. Our love for animals brings us together, and the government wants to destroy this unspoken bond that we, the people of South Africa, have. The sense of pride and protectiveness we feel over our animals is no secret, and they should’ve thought twice before trying to take it away from us. If you care about Robben Island and its adorable, endangered inhabitants, with beautiful flora and fauna covering every square inch of land, then join us.
However, the most notable is the African penguin. They gather along the coast, near the port, and waddle wherever they want. A long-term resident of the island, who has inhabited the island for more than 20 years, has taken note of the tonal shift the penguins have undergone over the years. They said that in the past, penguins weren't too arrogant because they knew they would end up in the stomachs of starving prison guards. Today they are taking over the island and an estimated 13,000 of these wonderful birds live here. They are a massive tourist attraction.