If you have found an injured pelican or other seabird
The Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary is their best bet for a safe recovery.
What to do if you hook a pelican on a fishing line
According to the University of Florida never cut the fishing line!
- Reel the bird in slowly and avoid jerking the line
- Cover the birds head with a towel
- Hold the bird closely to you and hold its beak
- Remove the hook by cutting the barb off FIRST
- Then it's safe to remove the rest of the hook
- If the bird seems to be not seriously wounded, release immediately.
- If the bird seems lethargic or serioulsly injured, call Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission 1-888-404-3922 for a list of rehabilitators
- or call the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary for help.(727) 391-6211
- Visit The Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary Website
The nonprofit Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary, Inc. is the largest wild bird hospital and bird sanctuary in the United States, based on the admission of up to 8,000 birds per year. For over 38 years, the Sanctuary has helped injured wild birds. The Sanctuary's mission is dedicated to the rescue, repair & rehabilitation of injured birds and then their release back into nature.
Founded in 1971 the Sanctuary is world renowned for its innovative rehabilitation techniques, and was the first facility to breed Eastern Brown Pelicans in captivity. The Sanctuary is staffed by experienced professionals and dedicated volunteers. Similar to a human hospital, it is equipped with emergency facilities, a surgical center, bird injury recovery areas, and an outdoor wild bird recuperation area.
Free - Donations Accepted
Contact the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary, Indian Shores, FL
18328 Gulf Blvd.
Indian Shores, FL
(727) 391-6211
Visit The Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary Website
