Congratulations to our Head of Research, Dr Loraine Shuttleworth, on graduating with her PhD in Zoology from the University of Pretoria on Monday, 11 May 2026.
Loraine’s research focused on the reproductive investment strategies of lactating southern right whales in South Africa and the implications for calf growth rates, using a combination of drone-based morphometrics, stable isotope and endocrine analysis to better understand maternal physiology and subsequent calf development within the South African population.
Her work contributes valuable insights to the conservation and long-term monitoring of this iconic species. We are incredibly proud of this achievement and excited to see the continued impact of her research as part of the DICT team.
Congratulations, Dr Shuttleworth!
#PhDGraduation #Zoology #MarineScience #WhaleResearch #SouthernRightWhales #MarineResearch #WomenInScience #MarineConservation
Small sea turtles washing up on our beaches need your help!!
As hatchlings arrive this time of year, it’s crucial to know what to do if you find one:
Never put it back in the water.
Remove the turtle from the beach and place it in a dry container to prevent drowning. Keep it at room temperature to help it warm up slowly.
Stranded turtles often suffer from hypothermia, making them weak and unable to lift their heads to breathe. If they can’t lift their heads, they will suffocate.
Get it to safety.
Contact the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary at +27725987117 for help. They will ensure it gets to the Two Oceans Aquarium for rehabilitation.
Do not release it back into the water. A careless release could lead to its death. Even if you’re delayed in getting the turtle to safety, keep it in your care until it reaches the sanctuary.
If you find a dead turtle, still pick it up. Take it to the sanctuary for investigation—many turtles have died from consuming plastic.
Track key details:
Is it a big turtle or a hatchling?
Where did you find it?
Any injuries?
Pass on this info when transferring the turtle to ensure proper care.
Thank you for your dedication to protecting marine life. Together, we can make a difference.
#TurtleRescue #SaveTheTurtles #MarineConservation #ProtectOurSeas #WildlifeRescue #EndPlasticPollution #OceanProtection #TurtleRehabilitation #PlasticFreeOceans #TurtleAwareness #AfricanPenguinAndSeabirdSanctuary
#TurtleRescue #MarineConservation #SaveTheTurtles #ProtectOurSeas #TurtleAwareness #WildlifeRescue #EndPlasticPollution #OceanProtection #SeaTurtleCare
Another Whale Lost to a Ship Strike Along Our Coast
A Bryde’s whale was reported stranded at Die Dam on 28 April 2026. This animal was clearly the victim of a ship strike — the second ship strike incident reported during April alone.
Amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the resulting increase in vessel traffic around the southern tip of Africa, concerns are growing over the rising risk of collisions between ships and marine megafauna, including whales.
Read the full story at .za/blog/ship-strike-suspected-in-whale-stranding-near-die-dam/
We thank Mr Charl van Niekerk for reporting the incident and remind the public to contact us on +27 (0)82 907 5607 should they encounter any stranded marine animals.
#BrydesWhale #ShipStrike #WhaleConservation #MarineConservation #OceanConservation #SaveOurWhales #MarineMegafauna #WhaleStranding #ProtectMarineLife #SouthAfrica #DyerIslandConservationTrust #DICT #ConservationAwareness #OceanScience #MarineWildlife #Biodiversity #WildlifeConservation #AfricanOceans #OceanAwareness #StrandedWhale
What Can a Stranded Shark Teach Us About Ocean Health?
In May 2026, a collaborative necropsy of a young female Ragged-tooth Shark was conducted by the teams from Dyer Island Conservation Trust and Two Oceans Aquarium at the Marine Dynamics Academy necropsy facility.
Known locally as “raggies,” these iconic sharks are recognised by their spotted bodies and rows of protruding teeth — but behind their fierce appearance lies a species now listed as Critically Endangered.
The examination provided valuable insight into shark anatomy, health, and the threats these animals face in our changing oceans. Findings suggested signs of infection and haemorrhaging, highlighting how environmental pressures, habitat disturbance, and human activity continue to impact vulnerable marine species.
Every stranding tells a story. Through research, education, and conservation collaboration, we can better understand and protect these incredible predators of the deep.
Read the full blog here:
.za/blog/ragged-tooth-necropsy-may-2026/
#DyerIslandConservationTrust #MarineDynamics #RaggedToothShark #SharkConservation #OceanResearch #MarineBiology #SaveOurSharks #SharkScience #OceanEducation #MarineLife #SouthAfrica #WildlifeConservation #CriticallyEndangered #ProtectOurOceans #MarineConservation
This week, our DEEP Blue kids joined I- Med Africa in celebrating Compost Week!
During the session, the learners explored:
- What compost is
- What materials are needed to make compost
- How compost is made step by step
The learners discovered that compost is created from natural waste such as fruit and vegetable peels, dry leaves, grass, and other organic materials that break down into nutrient-rich soil.
They also learned why composting is important for the environment:
✅ Reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills
✅ Helps decrease pollution and greenhouse gases
✅ Improves soil health naturally
✅ Supports healthy plant growth without harmful chemicals
✅ Encourages sustainable living practices
By learning how to compost, our DEEP Blue kids are gaining practical skills that help protect the environment and create a greener future for our communities.
A big thank you to I-Med Africa for sharing their knowledge and inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards!
#CompostWeek #DEEPBlue #EnvironmentalEducation #Sustainability #Composting #YouthForConservation #GreenFuture
100 Seconds for Sir David Attenborough 🌍
For a century, one voice has inspired the world to see the beauty, wonder, and fragility of our planet.
From the whales of the Dyer Island Eco system
to the sharks beneath our waters…
from rescued African penguins…
to the next generation of ocean guardians…
This is our tribute to the man who gave nature a voice.
Today, Marine Dynamics Shark & Whale Tours, the Dyer Island Conservation Trust, the African Penguin & Seabird Sanctuary, and our entire ocean family celebrate Sir David Attenborough’s extraordinary legacy.
Thank you for teaching the world not only to look at nature… but to truly care for it.
Happy 100th Birthday, Sir David Attenborough.
“The future of all life depends on us"
@davidattenborough@bbcearth
#SirDavidAttenborough #Attenborough100 #OceanConservation #MarineDynamics #MarineDynamicsSharkTours #MarineDynamicsWhaleTours #DyerIsland #AfricanPenguins #SaveOurOceans #Sharks #Whales #Conservation #Nature #SouthAfrica #Wildlife #OceanLove
Orca vs Shark: What a Broadnose Sevengill Necropsy Revealed
A recent necropsy by the Dyer Island Conservation Trust of a Broadnose sevengill shark offered a sight with which we are increasingly familiar: orca predation. Retrieved in Pearly Beach, the shark had the distinctive traits of an orca predatory event; notably, a neat ventral slit and a missing liver. The opportunity provided valuable insights into the biology, condition, and the pressures these prehistoric sharks face in our oceans.
While these moments are always approached with respect, they play an important role in advancing our understanding of vulnerable marine species.
Read the full blog for a deeper look into the findings and why this work matters: .za/blog/sevengill-necropsy-may2026/
Video of the Necropsy: bit.ly/3R5RzGy
#DyerIslandConservationTrust #MarineConservation #SevengillShark #OrcaPredation #OceanScience #SharkResearch #MarineBiology #OceanAwareness #ProtectOurOceans #SouthAfrica #PearlyBeach #WildlifeScience #OceanEcosystem #ConservationMatters
From DEEP Blue Ambassador to DEEP Blue Senior
Growth does not mean goodbye; it means stepping up.
Our DEEP Blue Ambassadors who completed their final year last year are not leaving the programme. Instead, they are entering a new chapter as DEEP Blue Seniors.
As DEEP Blue Seniors, they will take on the important responsibility of mentoring and guiding the younger ambassadors currently in the programme. They will support activities, led by example during fieldwork and conservation projects, and help nurture the next generation of environmental leaders.
This transition plays a powerful role in their development as young individuals. Stepping into leadership builds confidence, accountability, communication skills, and a deeper sense of purpose. It teaches them that true leadership is about service, about sharing knowledge, uplifting others, and protecting the environment together.
By growing leaders from within, we are strengthening not only our programme, but also our community. These young changemakers are proving that when youth are given responsibility and trust, they rise to the occasion.
The journey continues stronger, wiser, and ready to lead.
#DEEPBlueAmbassadors #DEEPBlueSeniors #YouthLeadership #GrowingLeaders #FutureConservationists
Celebrating the People Behind Ocean Conservation on Workers' Day
Today, we celebrate the passionate people behind the impact at the Dyer Island Conservation Trust 💙
Conservation is not a one-person job—it’s a powerful team effort. From our dedicated marine biologists studying and protecting ocean life, to the inspiring DEEP (Dyer Island Environmental Education Programme) kids learning to become the next generation of ocean guardians
From hands-on projects like removing harmful fishing line and marine debris, to ongoing research, wildlife monitoring, and community upliftment—every project, every role, and every person makes a difference.
Whether in the field, in the lab, in the community, or behind the scenes, this team works tirelessly to protect our oceans and create a more sustainable future.
Today, we honour the people turning passion into purpose- every single day.
#WorkersDay #DyerIslandConservationTrust #MarineConservation #DEEPProgramme #OceanHeroes #ProtectOurOcean #SouthAfrica #ConservationInAction
Little Hearts Making a Big Difference For Penguins!
This month, we had a wonderful opportunity to visit Rooha Pre-Primary to share more about penguins and the important work we do at the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary. We spoke with the learners about how we rescue and rehabilitate injured, sick, and abandoned penguins, and why protecting these amazing seabirds is so important. We also shared information about our Penguin House Project, explaining why we are building special nest houses to provide safe shelter for penguins, protect their eggs and chicks from predators and harsh weather, and help increase their chances of survival.
We are incredibly grateful and excited that each class has chosen to adopt 5 penguins, contributing R2000 towards their rehabilitation and care at our centre. Their support helps give our penguins a second chance at life!
Thank you to the learners and teachers of Rooha Pre-Primary for your kindness and commitment to conservation. Together, we are making a difference for our endangered penguins!
#PenguinConservation #AfricanPenguin #AdoptAPenguin #PenguinHouseProject #EnvironmentalEducation #SaveOurSeabirds #MarineConservation #ProtectWildlife #EducationForConservation #Gansbaai #APSS #dyerislandconservationtrust
Dive into an Inspiring Penguin Adventure – The Big Spill
Have you heard about the exciting children's book Peter, Pamela and Percy In The Big Spill by Lulu & Tee? This heartwarming story follows three African penguins — Peter, Pamela, and Percy — whose peaceful lives are suddenly disrupted when a devastating oil spill reaches their ocean home.
Covered in sticky oil and separated from their colony, the three friends must stay brave and work together while kind humans rescue and care for them. Through teamwork, courage, and compassion, Percy, Pamela, and Peter show young readers the importance of protecting our oceans and helping wildlife in need.
This beautifully illustrated book is not only fun to read but also teaches children about real-life challenges faced by African penguins and the role we can all play in conservation. It’s a perfect story for families, schools, and anyone who loves penguins!
📍 You can purchase your copy of The Big Spill at:
- African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary
- The curio shop at The Great White House Restaurant
Every book helps spread awareness about penguin conservation and supports the important work of rescuing and rehabilitating seabirds.
#TheBigSpill #AfricanPenguins #PenguinConservation #ReadAndLearn #ProtectOurOceans #WildlifeEducation #SupportConservation
Clean-Up Success at Gansbaai Caravan Park!
In celebration of Earth Day under the theme "Our Power, Our Planet" and World Penguin Day, our community came together on 25 April to take action for our environment at the Gansbaai Caravan Park.
A huge thank you to the incredible 50 volunteers, including our dedicated DEEP Blue Ambassadors, who showed their commitment to protecting our oceans and coastline. Together, we collected an amazing 91 kgs of waste, helping to reduce pollution and protect marine life, including penguin species of the Southern Hemisphere.
We are also grateful to @gansbaai_tourism for joining us and supporting this important initiative. Partnerships like these strengthen our efforts to address habitat degradation, climate change, and threats to our marine ecosystems.
Every clean-up makes a difference. Every action counts. Together, our power protects our planet.
🔗 Read more about the clean-up here:
.za/blog/gansbaai-caravan-park-clean-up-celebrates-earth-day-and-world-penguin-day/
#EarthDay #WorldPenguinDay #OurPowerOurPlanet #CleanUpGansbaai #DEEPBlueAmbassadors #CommunityAction #ProtectOurOceans
