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California sees surge in cases of malnourished pelicans
Testing hasn't revealed any evidence of diseases that could be causing the surge.
Hundreds are being brought into rescue centres.

Animal rescue centres in the US state of California are seeing a surge in malnourished and injured brown pelicans needing treatment.

Since 20 April 2024, two centres run by Bird Rescue have seen more than 250 pelicans arrive. At least 40 per cent have had significant injuries.

Other local rescue centres have also reported significant numbers of pelicans being brought in.

Rebecca Duerr, Bird Rescue's director of research and veterinary science, said: “Most birds are coming in cold, emaciated and anaemic – essentially starving to death. Many of them are exhibiting severe injuries – especially from fishing hooks and line.”

Many of the pelicans have been found in unexpected locations away from their usual coastal habitats, including at a fire station in Malibu and a lake at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood.

The situation is being assessed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, alongside the US Fish and Wildlife Service and local organisations.

Testing of birds being admitted to rescue centres has so far not revealed evidence of avian influenza or any other disease that could be causing the surge in cases. Postmortems are being carried out on birds which have died.

A similar situation occurred in California in 2022, when almost 800 malnourished pelicans were taken in by rescue centres. 394 of the birds went on to be successfully returned to the wild.

Image © Shutterstock

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Central Qualifications to attend BVNA Congress

News Story 1
 Central Qualifications (CQ) is to host a stand at this year's BVNA Congress. The awarding body will be at Stand C9 from 11-13 October.

It will discuss changes to the qualifications strategy and some new qualifications, including a top-up course for equine veterinary care, so qualified veterinary nurses can broaden their skills.

Rachael Shepherd, education consultant at CQ, said: "We are looking forward to attending BVNA Congress this year. There are exciting times ahead, with a revamp to the VN qualifications and assessment strategy and the introduction of some new qualifications." 

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News Shorts
Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.