Mystery Illness Is Killing CA Pelicans

ORANGE COUNTY, CA —Hundreds of California brown pelicans have been grounded by a mysterious illness, causing them to starve despite having ample fish to eat.

Marine life and bird rescue groups up and down the state are working to save the birds without fully understanding what is causing them to become malnourished. However, many of the birds are beyond help.

Over 100 sickened pelicans were discovered in Newport Beach since April 28, and only around half of them have survived, Wetlands & Wildlife Care Center Executive Director Debbie McGuire told Patch.

The pelicans are currently being cared for at the center in Huntington Beach after coming in sick and dying.

"We've taken in 181 pelicans, and 84 have died," McGuire said. "We currently have 97 in care."

It started in early April when about 80 sickened pelicans flew into the area from Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties, according to KTLA. Within the first two hours of arrival, 51 pelicans had died.

“They are coming in emaciated, and hypothermic,” rescue workers told KTLA. “Initial lab work is confirming they are in starvation mode. A large percentage are coming in with fishing gear entanglement.”

According to the Los Angeles Times, the wildlife center has been erecting pup tents to use as pens due to the overwhelming number of ailing birds.

Bird Rescue, which operates in Northern and Southern California, has reported more than 110 sick pelicans in less than a month, Spectrum News reported. The rescue group reported a similar crisis in 2022, Spectrum reported.

Anyone finding an ailing pelican should not touch or try to feed them, McGuire said. Residents should call their local wildlife rehabilitation facilities.

The Orange County Wetlands & Wildlife Care Center can be reached at 714-374-5587.