MIAMI BEACH, FLA. (WSVN) - A crowd gathered around three covered crates on South Beach on Monday, in anticipation of a moment weeks in the making.
Inside the crates were three juvenile brown pelicans ready to return to the wild, which were rescued, rehabilitated and cared for by the Pelican Harbor Seabird Station.
Just before the release, staff shared the birds’ stories and reminded beachgoers why it mattered.
“As humans, it’s our duty, we feel, to take care of them, and to do our best in order for them to be happy and live their lives as they should,” said staff member Marianna Niero.
And with a simple countdown, the moment arrived, and the three pelicans were released from their crates and able to spread their wings once again.
The pelicans arrived in September, two with fishing hooks and tangled lines embedded in their wings, and the third was caught in a tree, before being rescued by Miami Beach firefighters.
Niero said the young pelicans bonded throughout the rehabilitation process, turning Monday’s triple release into a true reunion in the wild.
With all three birds fully healed, they soared side-by-side as they returned to the wild in a moment that left beachgoers in awe.
“They’re beautiful and I’m glad we can coexist, with all of this beauty for us to enjoy and for them to enjoy too and to stay safe, and stay healthy,” said a man who watched the release.
Officials at the Pelican Harbor Seabird Station said if you come across an injured animal, it’s best to take a photo or video and submit it to them so that they can make a proper assessment or safely bring the animal to their facility at 1279 Northeast 79th Street.
For more information on how to help an injured animal, click here.
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