Protecting Our Pelicans

Last week, LAist ran a heartbreaking story about 11 pelicans that died after their wings were deliberately broken in Huntington Beach.

The following photos, all of which were taken in Santa Monica this month, illustrate just how comfortable pelicans can feel around humans. Although people on the pier were reaching out and petting this little guy, he didn't even flinch when they did so.

With this trust comes responsibility, and we must do all we can to protect the endangered pelicans that live on California's coast.

Those who might have any information related to the Huntington Beach incident are encouraged to call Special Agent Ed Newcomer of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at (310) 328-1516. To learn more about the brown pelican, check out this PDF.

Photos by Michele Reverte for LAist