This story was shared by a national park employee, Dr. Ivan Rusev, a biologist.

According to him, these birds were born during the war in 2024, likely in the occupied territories of the Kherson region within the Black Sea Biosphere Reserve – the only place in Ukraine where pink pelicans nest.

After nesting season, instead of flying south for winter, they headed north. It is unclear what challenges they faced during their migration, but volunteers rescued weakened pelicans. One was found in Vinnytsia, and another in Dnipropetrovsk region. They were transported to a unique bird rescue center – the “Nyushanyk. Help for Birds” estate in Kyiv region.

Over six months, the birds underwent a tough recovery process, bringing hope for their rehabilitation. Volunteers decided to release them in the Tuzly Lagoons National Park in Odesa.

“The pelicans traveled nearly 700 km from the Kyiv region. They were tired but excited. Park staff welcomed them, having prepared a temporary shelter. Delicious food from the Tuzly lagoons rejuvenated them,” said Ivan Rusev.

After a few days of quarantine, they were released on April 15 into the Jancheisky lagoon, where wild pelicans already lived. The date was chosen deliberately – it marked the 40th day since the passing of the famous artist Taras Shevchenko, the creator of the pelican monument in the national park.

“Their first flight was simply incredible. They joyfully flapped their wings, then lifted off the water and soared. Nearby, there was already a flock of adult pelicans, and soon they joined them,” shares Ivan Rusev.