CROW warns about feeding pelicans, other seabirds
The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) reported that with the expanded 2026 recreational red snapper season in Florida, it is reminding anglers that feeding pelicans and other seabirds fish scraps can unintentionally cause serious injury or death.
CROW’s wildlife rehabilitators commonly treat pelicans and other seabirds that have fish fillet scraps lodged in their throats after the birds attempt to swallow carcasses discarded by anglers. While the meat may seem harmless, exposed bones can become stuck while going down, causing painful injuries and preventing the birds from swallowing any other food.
“When people throw fish scraps to pelicans and other seabirds, they may think they are doing something good,” certified veterinary technician and Floor Manager Amber Strassler said. “In reality, the exposed bones of the fillets can become lodged in the bird’s throat and tear the delicate pouch. The bird may then slowly starve because it can no longer feed properly.”
Many of the pelican patients that she has seen have been fed very large scraps from fish, such as sheepshead, and the size alone can make it difficult for them to swallow. Strassler said brown pelicans typically catch smaller fish, such as menhaden or anchovies, on their own.
Treating these cases often requires sedation or anesthesia so veterinarians can safely examine the bird and remove the lodged bones. In more severe situations, birds may need ongoing supportive care, including fluids, pain medication and assisted feeding, while they recover.
CROW noted that pelicans and other seabirds are highly adapted to finding their own food and do not need to be fed by humans. Feeding wildlife can also encourage birds to gather around fishing docks and cleaning stations, increasing their risk of injury from hooks, fishing line and harmful debris.
Feeding pelicans is illegal in Florida.
On May 11, state officials announced a 140-day Gulf red snapper season, along with an expanded Atlantic season. Wildlife officials said increased fishing activity can mean more fish waste left behind at docks, marinas and cleaning stations, making proper disposal especially important.
“CROW encourages anglers and beachgoers to properly dispose of fish carcasses and all fishing-related waste to help protect local wildlife,” it reported.
It added that the best way to appreciate seabirds is to observe them from a distance and allow them to hunt naturally.
If you find an animal in distress or injured, call CROW at 239-472-3644, ext. 222.
Its wildlife hospital is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For more information about CROW, visit https://crowclinic.org/.