The Restoration of Pink Pelicans in Ukraine
This was shared by a national park employee, Dr. Ivan Rusev, a biologist.
According to him, the birds were born during the war in 2024, most likely in the occupied territory of the Kherson region within the Black Sea Biosphere Reserve – the only place in Ukraine where pink pelicans nest.
In the autumn, after nesting, they flew north for winter instead of south. It is unknown what difficulties they faced during their flight, but weakened pelicans were rescued by volunteers. One was found in Vinnytsia, and the other in Dnipropetrovsk. The birds were transported to a unique bird rescue facility – the "Nyushanyk. Help for Birds" estate in Kyiv region.
Over six months, the birds underwent a challenging treatment and recovery process, sparking hope for their rehabilitation. Volunteers decided it was time to release them in the "Tuzlovsky Limans" National Park in Odesa.
"The pelicans traveled from the Kyiv region, almost 700 km. They were tired. Park staff awaited them, having prepared temporary shelter. Delicious food from Tuzlovsky Limans revitalized them," says Ivan Rusev.
For several days, the pelicans were kept in quarantine, and on April 15, they were released in the Djantshay Liman, where "wild" pelicans already resided. The date was chosen deliberately – it marked the 40th day since the passing of the remarkable artist Taras Shevchenko, the creator of the pelican monument located in the national park.
"Their first flight was simply incredible. They joyfully waved their wings, then lifted off the water and flew away. A flock of adult pelicans was already nearby. Eventually, they joined together," shares Ivan Rusev.
