U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Offering $10,000 Reward for Information Leading to Prosecution of Perps Abusing Pelicans

Intentional Wing Injuries leave the birds unable to fly or fend for themselves

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has stepped in to address this growing crisis, offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to identifying and prosecuting the individuals responsible for harming the pelicans.

BREVARD COUNTY • FLORIDA – Florida Wildlife Hospital officials are raising the alarm after a surge in cases of brown pelicans with severe wing injuries.

Experts suspect the injuries are not accidental and could be the result of intentional harm, prompting wildlife agencies to launch an urgent investigation.

Over recent weeks, Florida Wildlife Hospital has reported treating many pelicans with broken wings. The injuries, described as “severe and heartbreaking” by veterinarians, often leave the birds unable to fly or fend for themselves.

The nature of these injuries suggests natural events may not cause them.

“We believe this could result from deliberate cruelty, and we’re determined to determine who is responsible,” said a Florida Wildlife Hospital spokesperson.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has stepped in to address this growing crisis, offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to identifying and prosecuting the individuals responsible for harming the pelicans.

“These are federally protected birds, and harming them is a serious crime under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act,” said a USFWS spokesperson. “We’re asking anyone with information to come forward immediately.”

Officials ask to share this alert to help others recognize the severity of this issue and the importance of protecting wildlife and follow updates from local wildlife agencies and hospitals for the latest news on this investigation.

The injuries inflicted on these pelicans are a violation of the law and a betrayal of our shared responsibility to protect wildlife. Wildlife advocates hope the reward will encourage someone to come forward and help end these cruel acts.

Let’s work together to ensure no more pelicans suffer from such cruelty.

If you have any information about these crimes, call the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service tip line at 1-844-FWS-TIPS (1-844-397-8477).

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