Recovered Downy Woodpecker Set to Take Flight

(Miami Beach, FL) Jun 23, 2022 -

A downy woodpecker that has been recovering from a suspected animal attack nearly two months ago, is set to be returned to the wild on Thursday, June 23 at 3 p.m. in Collins Park, 2100 Collins Ave.

“This patient has spent over a month in care at Pelican Harbor and has been receiving treatment for a possible animal attack that caused the patient to lose most of its primary feathers necessary for flight,” explained Environmental Educator Samantha Martinez of Pelican Harbor Seabird Station. “This treatment included pain medication, feedings every 30 minutes and flight training.”

A premier wildlife rehabilitation center near Miami Beach since 1980, Pelican Harbor Seabird Station is inviting members of the community and news media to join in celebrating the recovery and release of the downy woodpecker.

“Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the team at Pelican Harbor Seabird Station, this Woodpecker is ready to go back to its native habitat,” Martinez said. “Join us at Collins Park to witness this amazing event.”

Pelican Harbor Seabird Station is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of sick, injured or orphaned brown pelicans, seabirds and other native wildlife as well as the preservation and protection of these species through educational and scientific means.

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WHAT: Release of downy woodpecker

WHEN: Thursday, June 23 at 3 p.m.

WHERE: Collins Park, 2100 Collins Ave.