Which penguin species is famous for nesting near human settlements in Cape Town?

The African penguin is famous for nesting near human settlements in the Cape Town region.

African penguins live along the southwestern coast of Africa, with colonies in South Africa and Namibia. The well-known colony at Boulders Beach, near Simon’s Town south of Cape Town, has become a major wildlife attraction because penguins can be seen moving among beaches, paths and nearby neighborhoods.

The species was once called the jackass penguin because its vocalization resembles a donkey’s bray. It is also known as the South African penguin. Adults have distinctive black-and-white plumage and pink bare skin around the eyes, which helps with heat regulation.

Urban proximity does not mean the species is secure. African penguins face threats including reduced food availability, oil pollution, disease and disturbance. Conservation programs protect breeding sites and monitor colonies along the coast.