Pelicans Maimed, Reward Offered
The endangered California Brown Pelicans began showing up dead on Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro, around December 22, 2002. Mark Russell, on duty at International Bird Rescue Research Center (IBRRC) that day, was shocked when told that seven dead pelicans were found on the beach. Upon examination of the bodies, he found that all appeared to have been shot, with one having its right wing broken as well. Knowing the birds were California Brown Pelicans, protected by the Endangered Species Act, he called the law enforcement division of US Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS). The dead bodies were taken into evidence and an investigation was begun immediately.

Over the next few weeks, seven more pelicans were brought to the center, all with their right wings broken beyond repair. None of the birds survived their injuries. What makes this even more tragic is that all the birds were healthy, mature adults, entering breeding season. The birds lay only one or two eggs a year, and the loss of a mate during breeding season may mean they don’t breed at all. The mortality rate for baby pelicans is extremely high. Only about 30 percent make it to adulthood. The forensics division of USFWS in Oregon has possession of the bodies and a report is expected shortly.

Since the first mutilated pelicans came into the IBRRC, San Pedro, support from the public, the media, and other animal welfare groups has been overwhelming.

With a reward fund of more than $25,500 from individuals and groups, including the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), the Humane Society of the United States, Whale Rescue Team, United Animal Nations, Audubon, and Friends of Long Beach Animals, its hoped that anyone having information about who might be maiming and killing the endangered birds will come forward.

Anyone knowing who the killer of the pelicans should call USFWS at 310-328-1516. Anyone wishing to make a donation to help all pelicans that come into the rescue center, or wanting to add to the reward money, should call IBRRC at 310-514-2573. Donations may be sent to P.O. Box 2816, San Pedro, CA 90731. IBRRC, San Pedro, is located at the Los Angeles Oiled Bird Care and Education Center in Fort MacArthur, 3601 South Gaffey, San Pedro, phone 310-514-2573 or 2574.

Dive Tables Recalled
PADI recently discovered printer errors in certain Recreational Dive Planners (RDPs). The problems may appear in six (6) versions of the RDP, including both air and enriched air tables. These tables may be included in Open Water and Enriched Air Crew Packs, book and table combinations, CD-ROM combinations and individual tables shipped between 1 Oct. 2002 and 31 Jan. 2003.

While analysis of the problems shows that the risk of injury from the errors is remote, for the sake of safety, immediately check any RDP that you received during this period. Do not plan dives using these tables.

Instructions on how to check your table(s) and a complete list of product numbers and production codes is located at www.padi.com/rdprecall or you may take your table to any PADI Dive Center/Resort.

In the United States and Canada, call 866-698-0974 write PADI, Attn: RDP Exchange, 30151 Tomas Street, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688.