Miami Wildlife Rescue Releases Pelican After Three-Month Recovery

A young brown pelican has been returned to the wild following an intensive three-month recovery period at Pelican Harbor Seabird Station, a wildlife rescue organization located near North Bay Village in Miami-Dade County. The male bird, discovered at Haulover Beach in early May in critical condition, was discharged Friday after extensive veterinary treatment at the facility’s headquarters on 79th Street Causeway.

Upon arrival, the pelican displayed severe signs of distress, exhibiting weakness and general deterioration that required immediate intervention. Veterinary staff diagnosed multiple serious conditions, including fungal lesions affecting the bird’s pouch, ulcerated eyes, and joint infections in both ankles that demanded comprehensive medical care.

The recovery protocol involved intravenous fluid therapy, laboratory testing, radiographic imaging, antibiotic administration, two surgical procedures, and physical rehabilitation to restore the pelican’s mobility and strength. Sarah Lyon, an intake associate at the station, described the emotional significance of witnessing the bird’s transformation from a critically ill patient to a candidate for release.

The Pelican Harbor Seabird Station welcomes community involvement and donations to support its ongoing wildlife rescue operations. Additional details about the organization and opportunities to participate in its mission are available through the station’s website.