34 pelicans given clean bill of health at Jurong Bird Park

SINGAPORE — For about three hours, the giant water birds were caught, carried and weighed. A sample of their blood was collected and they were dewormed and vaccinated. Finally, the 34 pelicans at Jurong Bird Park were given a clean bill of health.

The birds’ annual health check — which included the deworming to ensure they’re free of parasites and a vaccination against avian influenza — took place last Wednesday (May 20).

The annual check ensures the giant water birds are healthy, and facilitates early detection and treatment of illnesses, said Wildlife Reserves Singapore (WRS) in a statement today. All birds were weighed individually to monitor significant weight loss or gain, which is indicative of potential health problems, WRS said.

Of the 12 staff involved, three were veterinarians and four were vet assistants.

Pelicans, characterised by their long beaks and elastic throat pouches that assist them in catching fish, are among the heaviest flying birds.

The Jurong Bird Park is home to all eight species of pelican, namely the American white, great white, brown, pink-backed, Peruvian, Australian, Dalmatian and spot-billed pelicans. Peruvian pelicans are found at the Shore Birds exhibit, while all other seven species can be found at Pelican Cove.