Sea Biscuit Wildlife Shelter treating dozens of pelicans affected by vibrio

OAK ISLAND, NC (WWAY) — Since Tropical Storm Debby hit in early August, 56 pelicans have been treated at the Sea Biscuit Wildlife Shelter in Oak Island.

Most pelicans are juveniles suffering from vibrio, a bacterial infection caused by contaminated water or food.

“And the water washed over the nest and they didn’t know what to do so they flew down the river and ate whatever they got in the river,” MaryEllen Rogers, Sea Biscuit’s clinic director and founder said.

At least 5 pelicans have died due to a vibrio infection.

While it’s difficult seeing so many of these birds suffer, Rogers said she’s glad the shelter is able to help as many of them as they can.

“It gets discouraging, you know, who wouldn’t? We love these guys, they’re big goofy, completely harmless birds, you know and so when you see them sick and you can’t help, its really frustrating. But I got a bunch of great volunteers and we’ve got loads of different drugs to try out so I’m always hopeful that we’ll figure this out.”

And with more rain in the forecast, Rogers said the shelter is anticipating seeing even more infected pelicans in the coming days.

“I am expecting more, yeah,” Rogers said. “Looks like we’re going to get a lot more water very soon so yeah, I’m kind of clearing the decks here to see what we can, what we can manage when the new ones come in, because there will be some next week.”

Rogers added the shelter recently purchased new property across from Cape Fear Regional Jetport, where a large barn will be built to allow more birds to be kept and cared for.

She said they plan to move in sometime later this fall.

If you do find a distressed pelican, call the shelter as they will be able to catch the bird and take care of it.