Injured Pelican Seeks Medical Help at NOAA Lab in Florida
A brown pelican in Panama City, Florida, sought medical assistance by knocking on the door of a NOAA fisheries laboratory on September 8, 2026. The bird, injured by fishing line and cactus spines, was treated by marine biologists who removed a hook and monofilament line. The pelican remained calm during the 10-minute procedure and was released back into the wild. This rare incident highlights the dangers of discarded fishing gear and the unexpected intelligence of wildlife seeking help.