Let's talk "wildlife"

Link: http://www.wwf.org.au/news/south-africa-puts-southern-ocean-protection-on-the-map/

Penguins, albatrosses, killer whales and of course people can all jump for joy at the latest news from the Republic of South Africa! The country is set to establish one of the world's largest Marine Protected Areas (MPA) around its Prince Edward Islands. This inspiring achievement will help reduce the ecological impacts of fisheries, particularly on endangered seabirds.

The Prince Edward Islands in the Southern Ocean is amongst the world's most important and diverse regions. But until now, the islands have been threatened by illegal and irresponsible fishing practices.

This bold step will provide critical habitat for many unique species, including 13 percent of the world's King Penguins population, five species of Albatross, 14 species of petrels, three species of seals and killer whales.

"This is a historic day in marine conservation in South Africa. All of South Africa's current MPAs are located very close inshore. The commitment of the first large offshore MPA moves South Africa into a new era of marine conservation," said Dr Deon Nel, head of the WWF Sanlam Living Waters Partnership.