Help track brown pelicans on our coast

This summer, International Bird Rescue in San Pedro has taken in a few more than 150 pelicans. Most are still in their hatch year and come in emaciated from lack of food. Others arrive with hooks in their pouches or fishing line wrapped around their bodies. After they get a little rehab, most will be released with a blue band on their leg. Photographers are asked to report when they see a blue-banded pelican. More from SoCal Wild:

The pelicans at this hospital have been rescued up and down the coast from Malibu to Seal Beach and brought here via the public or animal control officers. Each will receive individualized attention, medication and, once they are fully mended, will be released back to their ocean home. “Every bird that comes in here, goes back into the wild,” reassures Berry....

Photographers who spy and snap a photo of a blue banded pelican can enter in the Second Annual Banded Pelican Contest sponsored by the IBR. The contest closes Oct. 14, 2013. Winners – those who report the most birds – will receive prizes like a spotting scope or binoculars. They will also receive a private tour of the hospital and the exclusive opportunity to release a rehabbed pelican back into the wild.