Seven Set for Release, One Recovers from Surgery
ASTORIA, OR – The Wildlife Center of the North Coast is currently rehabilitating eight brown pelicans, seven of which are expected to be released back to the wild in the coming days. All of the birds were admitted in late April and early May, showing clear signs of emaciation and exhaustion, symptoms aligned with reports from wildlife centers across
California of similarly stranded young pelicans.
The pelicans in care are juveniles who likely fledged early from southern nesting colonies and migrated north before they were ready. Colleagues in California suspect a combination of domoic acid exposure and reduced food availability may have contributed to the influx of weakened birds up and down the Pacific coast.
Among the group is one pelican recovering from surgery after undergoing a toe amputation, a procedure recommended by avian veterinary advisors. The pelican is recovering well and is expected to be a candidate for release following a full recovery.
During this unusual event, the Wildlife Center requested temporary authorization from the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) to provide care for pelicans found in distress anywhere along the Oregon coast. While the request was not approved, the Center is grateful to the North Coast Watershed District Biologist for facilitating the rescue and release of pelicans within their district, helping to ensure that birds within the Center’s permitted service area received timely care and had a second chance at life in the wild.
“We were prepared to respond more broadly and hoped for the opportunity to support pelicans beyond our permitted service area,” said Executive Director Kari Henningsgaard. “It’s always difficult to witness a need we’re ready to meet but can’t legally act on. Our goal is always to provide humane, coordinated care for Oregon wildlife whenever possible.”
Brown pelicans are a sensitive indicator species of ocean health, and their well-being is closely tied to changing ocean conditions. The Wildlife Center of the North Coast encourages the public to report any brown pelicans or other seabirds in distress by calling (503) 338-0331. To learn more about the center’s work or to donate in support of wildlife rehabilitation, visit www.coastwildlife.org.
