Seven endangered California brown pelicans affected by a Los Angeles oil spill were released into the wild after 10 days of rehabilitation at SeaWorld's Oiled Wildlife Care Center (OWCC). The birds, a mix of adult and juvenile pelicans, were set free on the bay in San Pedro, California near the Oiled Bird Care and Education Center. Another eight birds will remain at the rehabilitation facility until they are deemed releasable.

A total of 15 pelicans were sent to SeaWorld San Diego' Oiled Wildlife Care Center for rehabilitation after being affected by a mysterious oil spill in Los Angeles last month. After examining and assessing the birds, aviculturists at SeaWorld used warm water (approximately 103 degrees) and Dawn dishwashing soap to clean the birds' feathers. Once the birds were clean and able to forage for food, they were taken to the center in San Pedro where some were released.

Since January 12, UC Davis veterinarians, staff members and volunteers have picked up more than 1,500 oiled birds on the coast between Santa Barbara and Huntington Beach. The majority of the birds are grebes, but other species include California brown pelicans, cormorants, surf scoters and loons. Oiled birds are continuing to arrive, although in less frequent numbers, at the UC Davis-run rescue center.

SeaWorld's OWCC, where the pelicans were rehabilitated, can house 200 sea birds and 20 marine mammals needing recovery. SeaWorld is one of 25 participating organizations in the statewide Oiled Wildlife Care Network (OWCN). The OWCN was established through California legislation in 1994. The primary mission of the OWCN is to provide efficient rescue and rehabilitation to animals in emergency situations.