A Spark of Hope Amid the Domoic Acid Crisis: Meet Amazonite the Pelican
A precious California Brown Pelican stranded on the beach with signs of starvation and dehydration. May 3, 2024 Corona del Mar State Beach
A Spark of Hope Amid the Domoic Acid Crisis: Meet Amazonite the Pelican
Help Us Save Marine Mammals and Seabirds in Crisis
Sea lions and seabirds along the California coast are suffering from domoic acid poisoning—a devastating condition caused by harmful algal blooms. If treated early, survival is possible. But without timely intervention, domoic acid poisoning can lead to irreversible brain damage or even death.
As this urgent crisis unfolds, we’re reminded of the critical need to act—and we’d like to share one rescue story that shows what’s possible when we do.
In May 2024, during the mass stranding of California Brown Pelicans, our team helped rescue one very special bird. Meet Amazonite the Pelican—named for his beauty and strength. We found him during our wildlife monitoring search at Corona del Mar State Beach, visibly weak and vulnerable.
With care and patience, we guided Amazonite away from crowds, traffic, and other hazards, standing by to ensure his safety until the Newport Beach Animal Control rescue team arrived. Thanks to quick action, Amazonite was safely transported to the Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center, where he received the urgent medical care he needed—and was later released back into the wild!
Every Wildlife Matters
Thank you to everyone who played a part in saving Amazonite. Your compassion, awareness, and support made a difference. Every single wild life matters—and each and every one of you has the power to help save a life.
See a Pelican or other Seabird in Distress?
If you see a pelican on the sand or in an unusual spot looking weak or disoriented, please don’t hesitate—call for help immediately. Your quick action can save a life!!!
📞 Seabird Rescue Hotlines:
📍 San Diego County: SeaWorld Rescue: (800) 541-7325 and San Diego Humane Society Project Wildlife: (619) 299-7012
📍 Orange County: Wetlands & Wildlife Care Center: (714) 374-5587
📍 Los Angeles County: California Wildlife Center: (310) 458-9453 and International Bird Rescue: (310) 514-2573
Help Us Save Wildlife
Wildlife Jewels® is currently seeking volunteers to help monitor beaches and report distressed seabirds and marine mammals. Learn how you can get involved and Join the Wildlife Jewels Rescue Collective!
“Every single Pelican is precious and every single Pelican counts. Please join us in this critical mission to save our precious Pelicans. ”
Join us and together let’s work to ensure safety of our precious wildlife!
Sea lions and seabirds along the California coast are suffering from domoic acid poisoning—a devastating condition caused by harmful algal blooms. If treated early, survival is possible. But without timely intervention, domoic acid poisoning can lead to irreversible brain damage or even death. In May 2024, during the mass stranding of California Brown Pelicans, our team helped rescue one very special bird.