A brown pelican found in San Pedro with a severely slashed pouch has been released back into the wild after receiving extensive treatment, including over 500 stitches. The bird, affectionately named Blue, took flight to rejoin its flock at White Point Park in San Pedro on Thursday morning. Russ Curtis, representing the nonprofit International Bird Rescue, highlighted the importance of the park as a familiar location for other pelicans, facilitating Blue’s integration into the wild.

Rehabilitation Journey

Blue was admitted to the care center in San Pedro on March 10, presenting with a pouch severed from the base to the tip on both sides, injuries suspected to be human-caused. Despite the severity of the wounds, Blue showed remarkable resilience, undergoing two surgeries and receiving around 500 stitches to reconnect her pouch to her mouth. Dr. Rebecca Duerr and Kylie Clatterbuck were instrumental in Blue’s rehabilitation, ensuring she could eat again and ultimately survive in her natural habitat.

Human Impact

The injuries sustained by Blue are believed to be the result of human action, as indicated by the manner in which her pouch was cut. Russ Curtis emphasized the need for greater mindfulness around wildlife and shared spaces. He expressed gratitude to the individual who rescued Blue and urged anyone with information about the attack to contact the Cal Tip Line at 888-334-2258.

Advocacy and Support

Curtis underscored the significance of supporting organizations like the International Bird Rescue, which rely on public donations to care for injured, sick, and orphaned waterbirds. Those wishing to contribute can do so by visiting birdrescue.org/donate.

Conclusion: Protecting Wildlife

Blue’s journey serves as a reminder of the resilience of wildlife in the face of adversity and the importance of conservation efforts. By fostering awareness and compassion, we can strive to create a world where human-wildlife interactions are harmonious and supportive of all species. Download The Local News App to stay informed about similar stories and initiatives in your area.

Source