American White Pelican Treated for Red Tide

Editor’s Note: The American white pelican is part of the CROW CAW (Case A Week) series, which tells the stories of the patients at the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife on Sanibel Island, the dangers they face, and how we can help protect all of our wildlife. Read previous cases here.

An American white pelican (patient 26-65) was found weak and unable to move on a Sanibel sandbar. As the rising tide threatened to submerge the sandbar, onlookers reported the pelican to the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW). The pelican was swiftly rescued and brought to CROW’s hospital. Upon initial examination, the bird appeared thin, sternal, and lethargic with no other injuries.

These symptoms are often linked to brevetoxins produced by red tide. Red tide most often forms in late summer to early fall; however, its effects persist through winter and even into spring. These brevetoxins are lipid-soluble and can bioaccumulate in the prey items of pelicans and other marine animals.

In response, the veterinary team promptly treated the pelican with intralipids, which help bind the toxins, and provided gentle supportive care. Over the next day, the devoted staff noticed heartening signs of recovery as the pelican began to hold its head up.

Furthermore, an X-ray revealed a BB pellet lodged in the pelican’s left thigh muscle. Since no entry wounds were observed, the animal was likely shot a long time ago. The veterinarians determined that the pellet wasn’t causing any harm to the pelican, so surgery to remove it was deemed unnecessary. Pelicans are federally protected, and hunting them is illegal.

Happily, the outlook for this pelican is bright, and its neurological signs have resolved. It is now resting in CROW’s outside pelican enclosure, regaining strength each day, cheered on by the dedicated team.