Rescued Pelicans: A New Beginning in Nature

This story was shared by a national park employee, Dr. Ivan Rusev, a biologist.

According to him, the pelicans were born during the war of 2024, likely in the occupied territories of the Kherson region within the Black Sea Biosphere Reserve— the only place in Ukraine where pink pelicans nest.

In autumn, after nesting, they flew not south but north for winter. It’s unknown what hardships they faced during their migration, but weakened pelicans were found by volunteers. One was discovered in Vinnytsia, the other in Dnipropetrovsk. The birds were transported to a unique rescue facility called 'Nyushanyk. Help for Birds' in the Kyiv region.

Over six months, the pelicans underwent a rigorous treatment and recovery process, which gave hope for a successful rehabilitation. Volunteers decided to release them into the national park 'Tuzlovski Lymany' in Odesa.

“The pelicans traveled nearly 700 km from Kyiv region. They were exhausted. National park staff awaited them, having prepared a temporary shelter. Delicious food from Tuzlovski Lymany revitalized them,” says Ivan Rusev.

After a few days of quarantine, they were released on April 15 into the Jantshai Liman, where 'wild' pelicans already resided. The date was chosen deliberately — it marked the 40th day since the passing of the great artist Taras Shevchenko, the author of the pelican monument located in the national park.

“Their first flight was simply incredible. They joyfully flapped their wings, then lifted off from the water and flew away. Nearby, there was already a flock of adult pelicans. Soon, they joined forces,” shares Ivan Rusev.