Pelicans have an iconic way of feeding and almost always swallow their food whole. Sounds pretty time-efficient, right? But also dangerous: watch how this man saves a pelican choking on his lunch.
A family is enjoying a lovely day on their boat when they spot a pelican that isn’t having a lovely day at all. They see how the pelican suspiciously floats in the water, barely moving at all. It’s when they see the massive fish stuck in its mouth that it all makes sense.
Despite pulling and pulling at the fish stuck in its beak it won’t budge – we’re all holding our breath because we know that for every second that passes the pelican is quickly running out of breaths.
This is when the dad makes a strange discovery – the fish stuck in the pelican’s throat as a fish hook attached to it! He manages to pull the hook out, saving both the pelican and the fish in one go.
“Man Saves Pelican Choking on Fish”, Source: YouTube, Uploaded: WeLoveAnimals
Pelicans
Brown pelican adrift on a summer’s day. Image by Philip Brown via Unsplash
Image by Philip Brown via Unsplash
Pelicans are large, distinctive water birds known for their long beaks and massive throat pouches. These birds are found on every continent except Antarctica, thriving in warm regions near coasts, lakes, and rivers. With their impressive wingspans, pelicans are skilled fliers and often glide effortlessly over water in search of food.
A Pelican’s Iconic Way of Feeding
Image by Zdenek Machacek via Unsplash
Pelicans are famous for their distinct feeding technique. Using their expansive throat pouches (which can hold up to three gallons of water!) they scoop up fish along with large amounts of water. After catching their prey, they drain the water by tipping their bills down before swallowing the fish whole.
Pelicans in Culture and Ecosystems
Image by David Clode via Unsplash
Pelicans have made notable appearances in various cultural references and folklore, symbolizing abundance and resourcefulness. Ecologically, they play a crucial role in their habitats by controlling fish populations and contributing to the health of aquatic ecosystems. Their presence is an indicator of a healthy environment, making them important to both nature and human culture.
Dangers of Fishing Hooks
Image by Calin Stan via Unsplash
Leaving fishing hooks in fish poses a severe threat to pelicans. When these birds consume fish with embedded hooks, the sharp metal can cause internal injuries, infections, and even death. Additionally, entangled fishing lines can restrict their movement, leading to starvation or drowning. Proper disposal of fishing gear is crucial to protecting these majestic birds and their ecosystems.
Wrapping Up
Image by Birger Strahl via Unsplash
Scooping up more than we can swallow can happen to the best of us! Lucky for both the fish and the pelican, this heroic dad could step in and save them both.
Author at Animals Around The Globe. BA Gender Studies & Literature
Josie is Swedish but has lived in South Africa for 12 years. She spends as much time as possible in the ocean or hiking in the mountains, no matter the weather. Although she adores all sorts of animals, dogs occupy the biggest spot in her heart – especially her Maltese-Chihuahua named Bootsy.
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