In partnership with the City of Naples, the Conservancy created signage and a brief educational video to educate guests and anglers about preventing pelican injuries and what to do if a bird is accidentally hooked.
injury prevention
In addition to caring for hundreds of native wildlife, the Conservancy’s Wildlife Rehabilitation team also works with community partners, agencies, and individuals to prevent common injuries to wildlife.
When anglers and pelicans go after the same good catch, injury can often result. In response to skyrocketing admissions of pelicans and other shorebirds with hook and line injuries, the Conservancy of Southwest Florida is leading public outreach efforts to prevent such accidents.
collaborative efforts
In partnership with the City of Naples, the Conservancy created signage and a brief educational video to educate guests and anglers about preventing pelican injuries and what to do if a bird is accidentally hooked.
We encourage you to share this information with your visitors and friends before they head out on the water.
Don't feed scraps
Do not feed scraps. It is not natural for wildlife to rely on human interactions when looking for food. Always be sure to dispose of your scraps properly, and limit any interactions with wildlife whenever possible.
Don't cut the line
Never cut the line if you hook a pelican. If the hook has caused harm to the animal, professional care may be needed. Additionally, if the line is attached to the bird and they fly away, the bird could later become entangled and unable to move or fly, causing serious or fatal harm.
safely remove hooks
Instead, place a net under the pelican, reel it in, cut the barb from the hook and push it through backward to remove. If you need assistance or ever have questions, call the von Arx Wildlife Hospital at (239)-262-CARE to speak to a professional rehabilitator.
Peer to Pier Pelican Protection
This video serves as a great resource for recreational anglers that might encounter pelicans or other birds while fishing. If you ever have any questions, please call the von Arx Wildlife Hospital to speak with a professional rehabilitation staff member at (239)-262-CARE.
As growth brings more people to Southwest Florida, the nonprofits that care for and educate us about wildlife — they’re residents here, too — shouldn’t be forgotten.
- Allen Bartlett, Editorial Page Editor, Naples Daily News
