Pelican Crisis: How You Can Help

In recent days, the Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network team has experienced an unusually large influx of brown pelicans who are severely emaciated, weak and unable to fly. SBWCN is urgently looking for volunteers, rescuers and transporters to help the organization respond to the crisis.

The sick pelicans have been rescued from all over Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. Most of them are beached, unable to fly or move, or are found in unusual locations. The exact cause of their condition remains unknown.

If you find a pelican you believe needs help, call the SBWCN Helpline at (805) 681-1080. Please provide a detailed report and the exact location of the bird. If you find a bird that is deceased, do not touch or handle it. If you’re interested in volunteering, email volunteer@sbwcn.org with the subject line “Pelican Help.”