News Summary
Huntington Beach is set to host a Wildlife Baby Shower Fundraiser on Saturday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 21900 Pacific Coast Highway. Organized by the Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center, the event invites community members to enjoy games while supporting the care of over 650 animals, including struggling brown pelicans. With increasing cases of domoic acid toxicity affecting these birds, the fundraiser aims to raise awareness and funds for their care. Attendees can participate in fun activities and learn about local wildlife. Join us to make a difference!
Huntington Beach Hosts Wildlife Baby Shower Fundraiser for Struggling Pelicans
Huntington Beach is gearing up for a unique event that’s not only heartwarming but also aimed at saving the lives of local wildlife. The Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center is organizing a fantastic Wildlife Baby Shower Fundraiser on Saturday, May 3. This grand affair will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 21900 Pacific Coast Highway.
Members of the community are warmly invited to get involved. Attending this event provides a great opportunity not only to enjoy an entertaining day but also to help support the vital work of the care center. There will be plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, including the exciting chance to interact with adorable baby birds and mammals.
Fun and Games for a Good Cause
The Wildlife Baby Shower is packed with free games and educational opportunities about local wildlife. You can check out various fundraising booths that promise a diverse array of goodies while contributing to the ongoing healthcare efforts for local animals. Bringing the whole family is encouraged as there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
Caring for Our Feathered Friends
Currently, the center is bearing the burden of caring for over 650 animals, including approximately 50 brown pelicans suffering from a troubling condition known as domoic acid toxicity. The plight of these pelicans is particularly alarming, with reports indicating that this is the highest number of animal patients experiencing domoic acid toxicity in close to two decades. Over the past month alone, at least 125 pelicans have been admitted, many showing severe signs of distress.
Why the Surge?
This current crisis stems from a toxic algae bloom caused by a species called Pseudo-nitzschia, which releases domoic acid into the waters of Southern California. Symptoms of this toxicity include disorientation, seizures, and emaciation from an inability to feed properly. Initial cases mostly involved adult pelicans, but the center is now seeing a worrying increase in younger birds as adult populations decline and leave chicks to survive on their own. Test results are pending to determine the extent of the issue affecting these younger birds.
How to Help
The center urgently needs volunteers who can commit to at least one shift per week. Those with wildlife rehabilitation experience are especially encouraged to step forward to assist with the demanding care required for these animals. Additionally, the care center is accepting donations of specific items from their wish list such as towels, mealworms, flat sheets, and toilet paper. Financial contributions are crucial too, as the nonprofit operates on an annual budget of around $1 million.
Compassion Fatigue a Concern
Amid the rising numbers of animal intakes, staff members are facing the tough reality of compassion fatigue. The high number of patients and the rigorous care they demand are taking an emotional toll. Wildlife officials are also keeping a nervous eye on other marine species. Recently, there have been increased incidents involving sick sea lions and various other animals, indicating a broader impact from the algae bloom.
Reporting Distressed Wildlife
The public plays a vital role in wildlife protection. If you come across any distressed wildlife showing unusual behavior, it is essential to report it promptly. Specific contact numbers have been established for reporting injured birds and mammals, ensuring that they receive the help they need as quickly as possible.
So, if you’re looking for a fun and fulfilling way to spend a Saturday, mark your calendars and join in the Wildlife Baby Shower Fundraiser. Your support could make a world of difference for our feathered friends and their furry companions!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Patch: Huntington Beach Hosts Wildlife Baby Shower Fundraiser
- LAist: Sick Brown Pelicans Flood Huntington Beach Wildlife Facility
- CBS News: Sickened Brown Pelicans Overwhelming Orange County Animal Care Center
- ABC7: Sick Birds Flooding Wildlife Care Center in Huntington Beach
- KTLA: Orange County Wildlife Center Needs Help Amid Surge of Ailing Pelicans
- Wikipedia: Pelican
- Google Search: Domoic Acid Toxicity
- Google Scholar: Marine Wildlife Rehabilitation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Domoic Acid
- Google News: Huntington Beach Wildlife Care
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
