Wildlife rescuers look for answers after dozens of pelicans in Orange County have wings broken

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. – Someone is mutilating pelicans along Orange County beaches, according to a wildlife rescue organization.

The nonprofit organization Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center in Huntington Beach says it has responded to more than 30 cases of wild pelicans having their wings intentionally broken by someone.

The organization said 32 brown pelicans have been found injured between San Clemente and Huntington Beach. 22 of the birds have had such devastating injuries that their broken wings came through the skin. The organization said the injuries are consistent with someone trying "rip" the bird's wings off.

Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center is asking for the public to keep an eye out for anyone who may be intentionally injuring these animals. The organization is also asking for donations to help with the medical cost of healing the birds, which it says costs thousands per animal.

The nonprofit will be having a news conference Wednesday alongside local law enforcement. In the meantime, anyone who might see suspicious activity related to these injured birds is urged to contact the CalTIP hotline at 888-334-2258 or text CALTIP to 847411.

For more information about the Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center, or for information on how to donate, click here.