Oak Island Water Rescue searches for distressed pelican; local shrimper saves the bird

OAK ISLAND, NC (WWAY) — Members of the Oak Island Water Rescue recently responded to a pelican in distress.

The group was contacted by the Sea Biscuit Wildlife Shelter about the bird tangled in fishing line around 500 yards offshore.

By the time volunteers arrived, it was turning dark, making the rescue more challenging. The group used a drone and boat to begin the search, but were unable to find the pelican.

Several days passed before a local shrimper came across an injured pelican off Oak Island. They removed the hook and set it free.

“While we can’t confirm this was our pelican, it’s great to see local watermen showing kindness to wounded pelicans,” OIWR said.