Waterfowl: Pelican sighted in North Hesse

A pelican has been spotted in North Hesse, Germany, sparking concern among wildlife experts. The water bird was first seen on Monday afternoon in Schwalmstadt-Ziegenhain and was sighted again on Tuesday morning approximately 20 kilometers away.

According to a spokesperson for the Tiernothilfe Schwalmstadt (Animal Rescue Schwalmstadt), experts have identified the pelican as a juvenile. The bird is reportedly unable to feed itself and is in urgent need of assistance.

The exact circumstances of how the pelican arrived in Hesse are currently unknown. Experts noted that the bird is not ringed, raising the possibility that it, or its egg, may have been brought into Germany illegally. However, they also acknowledged the possibility that it could be a wild animal.

Wildlife rescue organizations are working to provide the necessary care for the young pelican while investigations into its origins continue.