Matlacha community shocked by discovery of dead pelicans near Bat House Park

MATLACHA, Fla—A disturbing discovery was made near the Matlacha Bat House Park, where two dead pelicans were found. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is investigating the incident, as pelicans are protected in the area, which is known for its beaches and wildlife.

The person who found the pelicans indicated that the birds appeared to have been either kicked or beaten to death. 

Joe Cohen, a fisherman in the area, described interactions with the birds. 

"Every once in a while when you're casting and retrieving, they'll be swimming, flying by, and you know, as long as you don't have a fish on where they can see it, because once you get the fish hooked, he's up on the surface, and they're deciding, hey, that's what I want for breakfast or lunch or dinner, whatever," said Cohen. 

Cohen expressed his disbelief over the incident. 

"It's just bad news. I have no idea why anybody would do anything like that. It's ridiculous, really sad," said Cohen.

The FWC investigation is ongoing, and updates are expected as more information becomes available.