“The endangered Jackass Penguins of Africa’s southwestern coast face a dangerous and uncertain life, as they struggle to survive attacks by seals, gulls, jackals and sharks”

On southern Africa’s desolate West Coast, a new born African penguin chick, Lucy, struggles for her life.  In an environment known for its rough, untameable nature, we witness her growth from birth to adulthood, struggling against the elements and the many circling thieves, pirates, thugs and scavengers.

Penguins under Siege is a dramatic story, from one of the harshest coastlines in the world: The Skeleton coast of Namibia, South Western Africa, which borders one of the richest seas in the world.
Commonly known as the 'Coast of fury', it is the dramatic backdrop to a story of life and death struggles where only the fittest can survive.

Lucy faces a struggle from birth. She has only a ten percent chance of making it to adulthood, as predators constantly lie in wait. Her parents have their hands full for the next four months, feeding and protecting her and her older brother.

She nestles under protective parents, but their island home is under attack. They have to brave a band of rogue Cape fur seals that terrorise the penguin colony, waiting offshore to pounce every time the penguins go to sea. The beach is also threatened by scavenging gulls and jackals, waiting to prey on the unwary.

Lucy's first summer is going to be a tough one, but despite their comical appearance - penguins seem to be made of steel - they are survivors. The feisty Jackass penguin forms a monogamous bond with its life-long partner. They are very devoted parents, looking after their chicks on land for the first three months.

Against the odds Lucy takes on the seals, like David and Goliath – this truly is Penguins under Siege.

This DVD is accompanied by a beautifully illustrated 24-page hardback reference book. Watch the close-up wildlife film and at the same time read the book to learn about habitats, diet, life cycle and more. The book is packed with intriguing facts, illustrations, photography and a 'Test your knowledge' quiz.

Narrated by Kieron Elliott
Filmed by Peter Lamberti and Willem van Heerden
Produced by Aquavision (2004)
As seen on the National Geographic Channel and Animal Planet.

 To watch a pre-view of this DVD please visit YouTube or watch it at the bottom of this page