Beaufort, August 16, 2025
News Summary
A juvenile brown pelican has been rescued in Beaufort and is now under the care of the Outer Banks Wildlife Shelter (OWLS). The bird suffered an old fishing line injury affecting its patagium, making it overly comfortable around humans, which complicates its rehabilitation. OWLS aims to treat the injury and teach the pelican fishing skills before its release. The shelter is seeking community support and donations to continue their important wildlife rehabilitation efforts.
Beaufort – An injured juvenile brown pelican is in the care of the Outer Banks Wildlife Shelter (OWLS) after being rescued by a local homeowner. The pelican, found in Beaufort, has suffered from an old fishing line injury that has affected the patagium, which is the flap of skin located between its shoulder and wrist. The OWLS team has reported that this injury has made the pelican unusually comfortable around humans, posing challenges for its rehabilitation.
Younger brown pelicans typically face difficulties in catching fish as they lack the experience of adults, leading to an increased dependence on food provided by humans. This affects their ability to evade predators and survive in the wild, emphasizing the importance of proper rehabilitation efforts. The OWLS aims to treat the pelican’s injury, help it regain a healthy weight, and, importantly, teach it how to fish independently before its release.
Currently, the shelter is actively seeking donations as well as support from the community to continue their essential wildlife rehabilitation services along the coastline. The funding will aid in medical care for the pelican and other wildlife in need throughout the region.
OWLS’s mission revolves around rescuing and rehabilitating injured wildlife, particularly in the Outer Banks area, which is home to a diverse range of species. With the increasing incidence of injuries among wildlife, largely due to human activity such as fishing and littering, the need for rehabilitation centers like OWLS is more critical than ever.
This injured juvenile brown pelican serves as a poignant reminder of the impact that human activities can have on wildlife, particularly in coastal areas where both animals and human residents share the same environment. By raising awareness and providing support to organizations committed to wildlife rescue, individuals can play a part in helping to restore balance in the ecosystem.
The Outer Banks Wildlife Shelter continues to endeavor its efforts for wildlife preservation and rehabilitation. They invite anyone interested in supporting animal welfare to contribute, whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the message about the protection and rehabilitation of marine life.
How the Public Can Assist
The OWLS encourages people to learn more about local wildlife rehabilitation efforts and the importance of helping injured animals. In addition to financial contributions, community members can donate supplies or volunteer at the center to assist with ongoing care for rescued animals.
Background on Brown Pelicans
Brown pelicans are large coastal birds known for their distinctive long bills and conservation status, which has improved after years of decline due to habitat loss and environmental contamination. The ability to dive into the ocean to catch fish makes them fascinating creatures but also places them at risk from discarded fishing gear and pollution.
FAQ
What happened to the juvenile brown pelican?
The juvenile brown pelican was rescued after being found injured in Beaufort, suffering from an old fishing line injury affecting its patagium.
How is the pelican being rehabilitated?
The OWLS is treating the pelican’s injury, helping it regain its weight, and training it to fish independently.
How can the public support OWLS?
The public can support the OWLS through donations, volunteering, and by advocating for wildlife rehabilitation efforts in the community.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rescue Location | Beaufort |
| Species | Juvenile Brown Pelican |
| Injury Details | Old fishing line injury affecting the patagium |
| Current Care Facility | Outer Banks Wildlife Shelter (OWLS) |
| Planned Rehabilitation | Injury treatment, weight gain, fishing skills training |
| Community Support Needed | Donations and volunteers to aid wildlife rehabilitation |
