After coming back from near extinction, wildlife rescuers are concerned by the recent problems facing the California brown pelican. For unknown reasons, the pelicans are disoriented and bruised, and landing on highways, airport runways, alleys, and backwards miles from the normal coastal homes, according to the LA Times.
California Pelicans going Suicidal for Unknown Reasons
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.
11 Pelicans Die After Wings Deliberately Broken
Pelicans in Huntington Beach have apparently been targeted by someone who is deliberately breaking their wings, leading ultimately to the birds' deaths. 11 brown pelicans have died in a three-day span, which has alerted the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, who are investigating the deaths and looking for the responsible party. According to MyFox Los Angeles, "The Wetlands & Wildlife Care Center in Huntington Beach, which is caring for the lone surviving pelican, has offered a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of those responsible."
Photo Essay: Sunrise over Lake Balboa
When you drive north on Balboa from the 101, you may notice a constant stream of joggers and runners passing on the right. If you turn in the driveway there, you will stumble upon one of the valley's hidden gems. Lake Balboa was built in the 1990s (in Encino) and attracts a surprising array of birds and other small wildlife. Just before sunrise, a heavy fog blankets the area. As the sunrise approaches, the...

