NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.—Twelve brown pelicans were released at noon on June 17 by the Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center (WWCC) off a jetty at Corona Del Mar State Beach after they had been carefully nursed back to health since a tragic event in May.
A mass-stranding event—also seen in 2001, 2010, 2012, and 2018—occurred in early May of 2022 after hundreds of sick and dying pelicans were seen along Southern California coastlines and inland lakes.
The birds suffered from common issues including low body temperature, dehydration, malnutrition, and many parasites. The birds received help from a variety of care centers who gave them fluids, medication, and plenty of fish to restore their health….