First pelicans in 360 years hatch in St James’s Park London
Summary
For the first time in over 360 years, pelican chicks have hatched in St James’s Park, London. Four chicks born to a group of six adult pelicans are being carefully cared for by wildlife experts, marking a historic moment for the park.Key Facts
- Pelicans have been living in St James’s Park since 1664, gifted to King Charles II by the Russian ambassador.
- This is the first time in more than 360 years that pelicans have successfully bred in the park.
- Four chicks hatched starting on May 17, and all have survived their first month.
- There are six adult great white pelicans in the park: two males (Sun and Moon) and four females (Star, Isla, Tiffany, and Gargi).
- Pelicans usually need large groups to breed, but these six managed to produce five eggs in three nests.
- The chicks start feathering at eight to nine weeks old and stay vulnerable until they learn to swim at about 12 weeks.
- Specialists from several organizations are helping care for the pelicans, as the chicks grow quickly and eat a lot.
- The pelicans were temporarily kept on Duck Island during an avian flu outbreak earlier this year and started nesting soon after being released.
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