Catching Up with MSFV 2024 Grant Recipient, Pelican Harbor Seabird Station.

On February 4th, we had the privilege of hearing from Marianna Niero of Pelican Harbor Seabird Station, who shared insights into their incredible journey and the future of wildlife rehabilitation in South Florida.

Founded in 1980, Pelican Harbor Seabird Station began with a simple act of kindness—from its founders, living on a houseboat, rescued an injured pelican and nursed it back to health in a bathtub. That moment of compassion grew into an organization dedicated to rehabilitating and protecting South Florida’s native wildlife.

Among their many rescues over the years was Mogly, a native screech owl who became an ambassador for their work.

As Miami continues to develop, wildlife encounters—many of them harmful—are becoming more frequent. To address this, Pelican Harbor Seabird Station is working closely with the city to expand its capacity. A new wildlife hospital is currently under construction and is expected to be completed by 2026.

Marianna highlighted several key issues affecting local wildlife and what we can do to help:

• Keep Cats Indoors: Domestic cats are natural hunters and pose a major threat to birds and small mammals.

• Avoid Poison: Rodenticides don’t just kill mice—they also poison the birds that eat them. Instead, use humane traps.

• Ditch Glue Traps: These inhumane traps don’t just catch rodents—they often ensnare small birds and other unintended victims.

• Protect Seabirds: A staggering 70% of seabird injuries are fishing-related. Always dispose of fishing gear properly, and resist the urge to feed wild birds—keeping wildlife wild is essential for their survival.

In 2023 alone, the organization treated 2,476 animals, the majority being birds and mammals. However, running a wildlife hospital is no small task—it costs approximately $4,200 per day to operate.

How to Get Involved

• Follow & Support: Stay updated by following them on social media and subscribing to their newsletter.

• Attend the Annual Gala: Their Pelican Party fundraiser on March 12 is a key event that helps support their mission.

• Volunteer: There are many opportunities to get hands-on and help wildlife in need.

Future Pelican Harbor Seabird Station Facility

Looking Ahead

The new facility will be located between 82nd and 84th Street, along the railroad, and

excavation is currently underway—including efforts to preserve Native American artifacts found at the site.

As always, during our luncheon, we spent time with good friends and were reminded by our friend Lisa Depriest to celebrate the Love of friendship, "When you see something beautiful in someone, tell them. It may only take a second to say, but for them, it may last a lifetime."