Help For An Emaciated, Hypothermic Brown Pelican

The following story about a brown pelican was shared with us by Florida Keys Wild Bird Center.

This juvenile brown pelican was admitted to the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center in October after
being found unable to fly or walk.

Upon initial examination staff noted that the patient was emaciated and hypothermic. To begin treatment, staff administered oral fluids and provided an external heat source to help the patient get back into the normal temperature range.

Once the patient appeared more stable and was no longer hypothermic, staff began syringe feeding EmerAid IC Piscivore to help restart the pelican’s digestive system. This was continued until the bird was able to digest whole fish.

This bird came to the hospital at 2 kilograms (about 4.4 pounds) and reached 3 kilograms (about 6.6 pounds) before release.