The influx of pelicans from Santa Cruz and Monterey areas has slowed down at IBRRC’s two bird rescue centers. The most recent birds are mostly fishing tackle injuries from the Santa Cruz/Monterey area and have problems as we assume many have been injured for days or weeks and coming into the center in poor condition. At the San Pedro center, we’re still getting a more regular flow of pelicans, about ten a week.
And there’s more good news, dedicated staff and volunteers have worked hard to rehabilitate these remarkable birds. Many have been released back into the wild. (See photo above)
Since June 15th IBRRC has taken in more than 150 endangered brown pelicans. Between the two California bird centers, 339 birds have been cared for since the beginning of 2008.
Here’s the current numbers:
Current totals in house: 87
Cordelia: 50
San Pedro: 37
Total Fishing tackle injuries: 125
Cordelia: 75
San Pedro: 50
Total Released: 140
Cordelia: 66
San Pedro: 74
Total intakes in 2008: 339
Cordelia: 164
San Pedro: 175
As always, IBRRC is appealing for public support to help us pay the ENORMOUS fish bill for this response. It will easily hit $40,000 by the month’s end.
Thanks to all who already supported our efforts!
Media reports:
Santa Cruz Sentinel: Pelican injuries take a toll
Also see the video
