Wildlife group issues pollution reminder after hurt, endangered pelican recovered in Okanagan

An endangered American white pelican faces a long recovery after being injured by some fishing line discarded in a B.C. lake.

The Wildlife Rescue Association says in a statement that the pelican, one of North America’s largest birds, was stranded on a lake in the South Okanagan, near Oliver, when the rest of its flock flew south for the winter.

The bird, rescued from Tucelnuit Lake, was unable to fly because discarded fishing line had badly damaged its left wing, causing several punctures and a large tear in the skin.

A team was able to capture the severely dehydrated and emaciated pelican, and Wildlife Rescue says its medical team has determined there is a good possibility for recovery with long-term care and treatment.

Janelle Stephenson, hospital manager for the non-profit association, urges the public to learn how to recognize and reduce risks to animals from discarded items such as fishing line.

2:52 What to do if you see an injured animal in the wild

“Wildlife Rescue’s help centre provides information to support the public by clarifying the steps needed,” Stephenson says in the statement.

“The best outcome for wildlife is when rescue teams can respond quickly and provide immediate treatment to eliminate infection, starvation and potential death.”