As the weather begins to heat up, we are preparing for another influx of sick pelicans. Every summer, the Endangered Brown pelicans & White pelicans arrive at the center dying from botulism. These birds are brought to us by The Fish & Wildlife from the Salton Sea. Botulism is a form of food poisoning caused by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. The bacterium produces a nerve toxin that is ingested by the birds when they are feeding. This toxin paralyzes the muscles of the birds and without treatment, the birds would certainly die.

Brown Pelican in a hospital bed When the Pelicans arrive they are assessed for their current toxin level and treatment is initiated.

This is the first pelican to arrive this year It is unknown from year to year how many pelicans will develop botulism. Volunteers are especially needed during the Pelican season for various tasks from answering phones to monitoring the birds. If you would be interested in volunteering during this season please call the center at (760)347-2647 or email us on the homepage.

PELICAN UPDATES

                               

Brown Pelicans getting ready for release