13/10/2012 1 Comment Tweed Valley Wildlife CarersThis spring I was given a wonderful opportunity to attend a pelican rescue conducted by Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers. The bird had been reported as having a fishing hook in its bill, and previous trips by TVWC had confirmed the injury. I was able to tag along when they attempted to capture the bird and bring it in for treatment. I met one of the rescuers at the Jack Evans boat ramp, with the tinnie already in the water, adorned with TVWC and Australian Seabird Rescue decals. A short time later a second rescuer arrives carrying bait, which they would later use to lure the pelican to us. When the boat was loaded with the supplies, we headed off in search of the injured pelican. We made a few stops at some sand bars where the birds gather before spotting our subject towards the back of the broadwater. The bait was strategically tossed out to lure the pelicans towards a foot lasso. The bait not only served to attract the pelicans, but also sea gulls, terns, kites, and ospreys. It turned into a wonderful photo opportunity for me, with birds swooping close over my head, and chasing each other around the sand bar in attempt to grab some of the bait. Our pelican seemed quite alert and energetic, which is a good sign, and managed to take a few pieces for himself. Unfortunately, we did not manage the capture the bird that day. They will make more attempts to bring him in over the coming days, and won't stop until they get him in for some help.
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AuthorNolan White Archives
January 2013
CategoriesAll Cape Range Coral Bay Darwin Green Head Haiku Kakadu Kalbarri Kangaroo Island Karijini Moving North Northern Rivers Wildlife Carers Northern Territory Western Australia |