The Houston SPCA Wildlife Center is currently caring for two juvenile brown pelicans found in Seabrook, Texas, just ahead of Sunday morning’s hard freeze. Both birds were discovered cold, dehydrated, and severely emaciated, conditions that can quickly become life-threatening during winter weather. An additional pelican came into our care the following day from the Webster area with evidence of frostbite on its foot.
“Young pelicans are especially vulnerable during colder months because they have not yet mastered plunge-diving for fish,” said Brooke Yahney, Director of the Houston SPCA Wildlife Center. “As fish move into deeper waters in winter, juvenile pelicans often struggle to find enough food. Many become weakened and are unable to survive on their own.”
The pelicans are now receiving supportive care at the Wildlife Center, including fluids and electrolytes, to stabilize their condition. Once they regain strength, they will gradually transition to eating smelt as part of their rehabilitation.
With freezing temperatures expected, residents are encouraged to remain alert for native wildlife that may be ill, injured, or orphaned. Animals affected by cold weather often need prompt assistance. Anyone who encounters wildlife in need is urged to bring them to the Houston SPCA Wildlife Center as soon as possible. Guidance on safely assisting injured wildlife is available at HoustonSPCA.org.
The Houston SPCA Wildlife Center is one of the most comprehensive wildlife rehabilitation facilities in the country. In 2025 alone, the Center provided care to more than 17,000 ill, injured, and orphaned wild animals. The Wildlife Center is open daily for public intake from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Follow @HoustonSPCA on socials for updates on animals in our care and ways to help protect wildlife during extreme weather.
