A: Pacific Wildlife Project is a year-round wildlife treatment and rehabilitation facility incorporated in 1986 by concerned citizens, veterinarians and wildlife professionals. The Project treats over 2,000 animals a year, not just pelicans, but any animal that need its help.

Q: What caused the illness?

A: Some of the pelicans have been infected with avian botulism, which results in "food poisoning". Botulism is a bacteria that lies on the bottom of the Salton Sea and is usually not harmful, but in the summer of 1996 a number of unusual conditions caused the botulism to infect the fish in the sea. Once the fish were infected the pelicans also became infected.

Q: Can botulism affect humans?

A: No, botulism is not contagious to humans or other wildlife through contact alone.

Q: How many pelicans are affected?

A: When the outbreak first occurred in 1996, the US Fish and Wildlife Service estimated that about 13,844 birds from 61 species were affected with this disease and died from it during the first two months of the outbreak.

Q: What are symptoms of botulism?

A: Botulism is a disease that affects the muscular and nervous systems that are necessary for survival. When the poison spreads the bird loses control of its legs, wings, eyelids and neck. The heart, intestinal, and other bodily functions are also compromised. Botulism can also lead to neck and eyelid paralysis, blindness, and numerous other conditions. If left untreated, botulism can lead to death by drowning, dehydration, or starvation.

Q: What type of medical treatment do infected pelicans need?

A: Depending on the pelicans' condition, it is classified in one of three different categories. Class A includes birds that have had a speedy recovery and are ready for release. Class B includes birds that still need assistance in feeding and still require medicine. Class C are the birds that are very sick and need a lot of medical attention. Some birds need to be tube fed or given antibiotics or blankets and towels to maintain warmth.

Q: What are some signs of recovery?

A: Before the pelicans are released they need to be fully recovered and functioning in the following areas:
They must be bright, active and alert with no signs of any defects.
They must be eating well and digesting fish.
Their weight must be within normal ranges.
Their eyes must be clear and healthy.
They must be free of sores on their hocks or elsewhere.
Their salt glands must be functioning correctly.
They must be strong and well muscled.

Q: Where are they released?

A: When the pelicans have completely recovered they are released all along the Southern California coast, usually between Seal Beach and Del Mar.

Q: Where do they go after release?

A: After release most pelicans will stay along the Southern California coast.