ST. BERNARD PARISH, La. — After Louisiana authorities investigated the deaths of several pelicans in Plaquemines and St. Bernard parishes, they determined the birds died from natural and accidental causes.
According to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, the necropsies found no illegal activity associated with the pelican deaths.
One of the pelicans initially appeared to have been nailed to a water level gauge in the Caernarvon Diversion area in Plaquemines Parish, but officials say the bird accidentally hooked its pouch on a protruding screw. The pelican then broke its neck trying to free itself from the screw.
Another pelican, found floating in shallow water, died from severe parasitism and emaciation.
The LDWF says during winter, mortality rates in juvenile brown pelicans can be high. Young pelicans are not as good at fishing as mature pelicans and have higher rates of parasites. Young pelicans also have little to no fat reserves and can die from malnutrition and hypothermia.
Officials say the LDWF Enforcement Division is closing the investigation pending further evidence that would indicate the birds were illegally killed.
