Barack, the pelican--a human interest story.

[Skidmore]

Some months ago, during the floods here in Iowa, a little island of land formed by the back waters of the Iowa River in the middle of a farmer's field. This field has been pretty much under water for the past 2 years so the island has come to seem like a permanent feature. During the summer, a pelican was seen on that island and in the water there. After a while it became apparent that the bird was injured and could not fly. The villagers started leaving food for the bird and named him "Barack." With winter fast approaching, it was evident that the pelican could not leave so some of the citizens contacted the wildlife department of the state. They were told that a home would be found for the bird if we caught it. Three people went out on a Saturday morning and with old sheets and much patience caught Barack. Our local one page bulletin this week informed us that Barack has a new home in the St. Louis Zoo and his wing is healing fine. We look forward to learning some day that he is First Pelican.

[Peregrine Took]

1. So glad to hear there is a happy ending to that story. I posted it earlier this

week.
Way to go Iowa!!

And kudos to the wonderful Norris father and son who initiated the rescue, to the wildlife rehabbers Allison and Sullivan and the fire fighters who participated! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, guys!

[Skidmore]

3. I didn't see your thread.

We're glad Barack has a home. We weren't so lucky with a Canadian goose with a broken wing that showed up more recently. The bird's injury was so bad that it was euthanized after it was rescued.

[ColbertWatcher]

2. It would be nice to see a link and pictures if there are any. n/t

[Skidmore]

4. Our local bulletin does not have a website

and is one large sheet printed double-sided. It is distributed free of charge at our post office. I wish I could post something for you.

[ColbertWatcher]

8. Oh well. C'est la vie! n/t

[BrklynLiberal]

5. Wonderful story. In keeping with the idea that we were put here to care for the rest

of the planet's inhabitants..

[wildflowergardener]

6. Zoo

I wonder where he is in the zoo? Does anyone know if he's on display or somewhere being taken care of?

Meg (In St. Louis)

[crispini]

7. Ahahahahaha. Nice!

[Triana]

9. Awwwwwr! I LOVE pelicans too! Thank you all for saving him! n/t