Re-sightings of African Penguins Spheniscus demersus flipper-banded as chicks were used to estimate the age of first breeding. Data from five breeding colonies in three regions were analysed: Ichaboe and Mercury islands, Namibia; Dassen and Robben islands, Western Cape and Bird Island, Algoa Bay, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Between 6% and 9% of chicks banded at each colony were subsequently recorded breeding. The average age at first breeding was 4-6 years (range 2-8 years). Oiling, and the subsequent cleaning and rehabilitation procedures, did not affect the age of first breeding.