Reward Offered in North Carolina Pelican Cruelty Case

The Humane Society of the United States and The Humane Society Wildlife Land Trust are offering a $2,500 reward for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for breaking the wings of 10 brown pelicans in Brunswick County, N.C.

The Case:

News reports give the following account: Between Dec. 17 and Dec. 31, 10 pelicans were found washed ashore on Bald Head Island, Oak Island, Holden Beach and Caswell Beach. The birds were suffering from broken wings. Some of the birds had drowned, and the rest had to be euthanized as a result of their injuries. In 2007, there was a similar string of pelican injuries in the same area.

“The infliction of such egregious cruelty on these birds is a serious crime,” said Kimberley Alboum, North Carolina state director for The HSUS. “Clearly the person or persons responsible have a callous disregard for wildlife laws and the species they are intended to protect.”

If caught, the individual or individuals face numerous violations of state and federal law. Maliciously maiming an animal is a felony in North Carolina. Pelicans are also protected under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Animal Cruelty:

Getting the serious attention of law enforcement, prosecutors and the community in cases involving allegations of cruelty to animals is an essential step in protecting the community. The connection between animal cruelty and human violence is well documented. Studies show a correlation between animal cruelty and all manner of other crimes, from narcotics and firearms violations to battery and sexual assault.

Poaching:

Every year, thousands of poachers are arrested nationwide; however, it is estimated that only 1 to 5 percent of poachers are caught. Poachers kill wildlife anytime, anywhere and sometimes do so in particularly cruel ways.

The Investigators:

Anyone with information about this case should contact the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission at 800-662-7137.

The HSUS works to stop wildlife abuse and animal cruelty across the country. Visit www.humanesociety.org/wildlifeabuse for more information.

Signs of the Season

Southport businesses can't help but wonder what this year's tourist season will bring. The mainstream media is sending mixed signals and only time will tell. Many local businesses (Wild Wing Cafe, Chincha's Day Spa, Timber Lake Realty, Lighthouse Deli, Groovy Movies on Oak Island, Southport Fashions, Boater's World, Golden Coral, just to name a few) have not made it through this past winter. I suspect many more local businesses will fail if the looming tourist season does not develop this year.

On a positive note, during the week leading up to Easter weekend and the Southport Spring Festival we have noticed a significant pickup in tourist traffic, despite our below average temperatures for this time of year.

Local vacation rental companies, such as Oak Island Accommodations, are reporting solid bookings for the upcoming season and they are also saying that cancellations are running the average.

With the weather improving each week hopefully more and more vacationers and day-trippers will visit the Southport area. For the sake of our local business and our local economy, let's hope so!