Research
In addition to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing wildlife, the Florida Wildlife Hospital also helps by contributing to research.
What We’re Doing
Pelican Banding
COMING SOON! By banding pelicans we hope to learn more about their survivability post rehabilitation, whether pelicans are admitted multiple times, and what impact release location has on entanglement in fishing line.
Gopher Tortoise Disarticulation
By taking detailed observations on what happens to gopher tortoises' bodies and shells after they dies, we can contribute valuable information for law enforcement officials to have a guide to determine how long an animal has been deceased and whether a gopher tortoise death may have occurred under suspicious circumstances. We are partnering with Blue World Research Institute with a grant from Florida Fish and Wildlife to collect and document this information.
Plastic in Seabirds
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is researching the impact of plastics on our seabirds. When a bird sadly does not survive, we carefully conduct a post-mortem examination, recording any plastic found in its stomach. By documenting the types, colors, and quantities of plastic, we contribute valuable insights to ongoing research efforts, shedding light on the broader environmental crisis, and helping to advocate for changes that can protect future bird populations.
Citizen Science
Want to help? We need citizens like YOU to help spot our banded pelicans out in the wild so we can learn more about their behaviors, travel patterns, and survival post rehabilitation.
- Record the Band Information:
- Carefully note all the numbers, letters, and colors on the band(s). Some birds may have multiple bands on one or both legs, so be thorough.
- If possible, take a clear photo of the band for reference.
- Note the Bird’s Details:
- Record the species (if known), location (GPS coordinates are helpful), date, and time of the sighting.
- Include any notable behaviors or conditions of the bird (e.g., injured, healthy, dead).
- Submit the Report:
- Fill out the online reporting form (Click on button above) with the band information and your observations.
Reporting a banded bird contributes valuable data to wildlife research and conservation efforts. Your observation helps us learn more about the science of wildlife rehabilitation, monitor populations, and protect species.
