African Penguin (Spheniscus demersus) colonised Boulders Beach in 1985 when two breeding pairs were recorded. The colony has increased steadily: there were approximately 700 active nests in 1997 and in 2014 more than 800 breeding pairs were present, representing approximately 6% of the global population. This is one of only three mainland breeding sites in the world. The penguins use the vegetation for shelter while breeding and moulting.