Winter Attracts Migratory Birds And Requires Increased Attention On The Beaches Of Rio
Three Magellanic penguins were found stranded on the beaches of Geribá, Tartaruga, and Arraial do Cabo, in the Lakes Region.
The location was confirmed by the Albatroz Institute, responsible for the Petrobras Beach Monitoring Project.
The rescue took place in the first days of the migratory season, which extends from June to September.
These cases highlight how the birds’ movement from Patagonia can create critical situations of hypothermia and exhaustion.
Quick Rescue Ensures Greater Chance Of Recovery
The team rescued the animals between July 1 and 4, 2025.
All showed clear signs of hypothermia.
Teams from the Albatroz Institute found the penguins and placed them in thermal blankets.
They kept the animals under controlled heating, essential for stabilizing their temperature.
They also received fluid therapy and important medications for recovery.
According to Daphne Goldberg, a veterinarian and technical supervisor of the institute, one of them had a beak misalignment.
The upper part was shorter than the lower, impairing feeding in the natural environment.
This condition makes rehabilitation more delicate.
Migration Challenges The Survival Of The Birds
From June to September, Magellanic penguins migrate from the cold Argentine Patagonia.
This movement puts the birds at risk during long journeys in open sea.
The Albatroz Institute explains that, frequently, the animals arrive exhausted on the beaches of Rio.
Many appear ill and hypothermic.
In Araruama, at the Rehabilitation and De-oilification Center, the team works to stabilize the birds.
This care is essential to prepare them for return to their natural habitat.
Therefore, the action of these projects is indispensable.
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What To Do If You Find Stranded Penguins
If bathers or fishermen spot penguins, they should follow all the guidelines from the Albatroz Institute.
Additionally, never place the animal in water or ice.
After all, thermal shock can even worsen hypothermia.
Similarly, it is essential to avoid excessive photos and handling. Therefore, these precautions are crucial not to increase the animals’ stress.
The official recommendation is to contact PMP-BC/ES immediately.
For this, the available contact number is 0800 991 4800.
Environmental Monitoring Gains Strength With Awareness
In previous years, such as in 2022 and 2023, similar situations also occurred.
Therefore, this demonstrates that the presence of penguins is common in the Lakes Region during winter. Thus, raising awareness among residents and tourists really makes a difference, as it helps protect these migratory species.
In addition, the Albatroz Institute keeps its teams always on alert to quickly identify new cases.
Finally, the institution also seeks support from society to ensure quick, safe, and responsible rescues.

