Florida wildlife experts urge public: Don't feed the pelicans

PUNTA GORDA Fla.—A growing issue in Punta Gorda is putting pelicans at risk, as feeding these birds is causing them more harm than good. Wildlife experts warn that what may seem like a "helpful snack" can quickly become a life-or-death problem for pelicans.

Cassie Tessier, rehabilitation manager at Peace River Wildlife Center, said, "We have an American white pelican. Came in about two weeks ago off of Boca Grande."

This particular pelican has faced significant challenges.

"He came in emaciated, probably just lost the fish and everything, and he had some heavy parasite like pouch lice. So that's kind of why he's got the discoloration on his beak there," said Tessier.

Now, the pelican is recovering at the Peace River Wildlife Center.

"We're just getting him some groceries, and he should be able to be released soon, so just getting his body condition back on him and sending him on his way," Tessier said.

The Peace River Wildlife Center has seen twice as many pelican patients from 2024 to 2025. One of the main reasons for skinny, starving pelicans is people feeding them.

Tessier explained, "When they start to rely on humans to be their food source, they lose their fear of humans. So they're going to approach people more often, and then they congregate more at the pier."

This close contact results in significant problems.

"That's when they can share their like cooties and parasites and stuff," said Tessier.

Over time, pelicans forget how to be wild.

"They kind of lose their skills to survive, so they should go out into the sea and fish, but when they have a meal at the pier every day, they do lose those skills," Tessier said.

What begins as a handout turns into a habit.

"When the people disappear, they starve because no one's there to feed them," said Tessier.

In Florida, intentionally feeding pelicans is illegal. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says a first offense can result in a fine, but repeat or severe cases can lead to misdemeanor or even felony charges. They advise keeping it simple: don’t feed them, throw away scraps, and keep your distance.

The FWC encourages the public to report wildlife violations by calling the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC or submitting a tip at their website.