A Pinellas Sheriff’s deputy rendered aide to a pelican that had a hook in its mouth and neck. The incident occurred on Sunday at approximately 11:48 a.m.
According to deputies, Deputy Brandon Lundy and Deputy Todd Brien were on an ATV working a detail on St. Pete Beach when they were flagged down by a bystander. The citizen advised there was a pelican that appeared to be in distress due to a possible hook in its mouth.
Deputy Lundy made several attempts to capture the bird on the beach before it flew into the water. Deputy Lundy then removed his gear, entered the water and eventually captured the injured pelican.
Once on shore Deputy Lundy, with the assistance of Deputy Brien and other citizens, was able to remove the hooks that were in the pelican’s mouth and neck.
The bird was then surrendered to the Seabird Sanctuary for further evaluation.
