Dozens of bird eggs and chicks have been successfully rescued from nests in a wind-damaged eucalyptus tree in a California park, which was in danger of collapsing. The operation took place at a park in Marina del Rey, where staff at the local wildlife center are diligently caring for 47 eggs and 12 juvenile double-crested Cormorants, aiming for their eventual return to the wild.
The eucalyptus tree was marked for urgent attention after a trunk fell and crushed a nearby trash bin enclosure. Signs of further deterioration prompted immediate action, as the unstable tree posed a risk to both the birds and park visitors. Authorities confirmed that the condition of the tree was rapidly worsening, leading to concerns for safety.
On March 10, tree contractors spent approximately five hours delicately removing 20 nests from the threatening tree. Biologists on-site carefully transported the eggs and chicks using insulated cartons and blankets to provide temporary warmth during the relocation process.
Double-crested Cormorants are a common species in Southern California, typically nesting in large colonies. Their nesting behavior often results in high population density within individual trees, complicating their care. During the incubation period, Cormorant parents provide essential regurgitated food to their chicks for the first few weeks of life.
Caring for these chicks poses significant challenges, as they are born underdeveloped and rely heavily on their parents for survival. At the wildlife center, staff must feed the chicks hourly and employ various strategies to prevent them from forming human attachments, which could hinder their reintegration into the wild.
The rescue team anticipates that the chicks will remain under care for at least three months, after which they will be released once they can hunt and fly independently. Currently, all chicks are reported to be healthy, with some already consuming whole fish at around two weeks old.
The staff at the wildlife center remain committed to nurturing these young birds, hoping that they will thrive in their natural habitat upon release.
