Be Aware

Ollie in the kayak rescuing a pelican with botulism.

Well it is certainly crazy weather at the moment and unfortunately prime conditions for sick birds. Australian Seabird Rescue have taken in 2 sick pelicans in 3 days - both rescued in our trusty kayak.

The weather conditions often cause botulism which is a rapidly paralysing condition that attacks nerve endings and can kill a bird within 24-36 hours.

So please - be aware - of any sea or shore birds that appear to be "doing nothing" in the same spot and possibly just sitting like a duck. As their legs are paralysed first they may be drifting or up against banks or reeds or stranded by the tide. If we are notified quickly we have about a 90% recovery rate after intensive care. Please always remember we would rather attend ten false alarms than one dead bird.

Betty