Reward up to $20,000 to catch bird attacker

A group of wildlife protection agencies have quadrupled the reward for information on whoever snapped the wings of 11 endangered brown pelicans on Bolsa Chica State Beach.

The reward has risen from an initial $5,000 to $20,000 for anyone with information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible. In addition to the Wetlands and Wildlife Care Center, which is caring for the one surviving bird, other agencies involved are the Found Animals Foundation, Bolsa Chica Land Trust and the International Bird Rescue and Research Center.

Between Sept. 15 and Sept. 17, 11 pelicans were found on a narrow stretch of beach with horrific injuries, wildlife workers said. Of the four who were still living when found, three had to be euthanized because of their injuries.

The injuries were too similar — wings snapped back the wrong way — to be coincidence, workers said. But one pelican has managed to survive, and its condition is improving.

“The one surviving pelican is doing well,” said the center’s wildlife director, Debbie McGuire, in a statement. “She is eating well, perching well and her weight is up. She is still not flapping, though.”

Those with information on the incidents is asked to call Special Agent Ed Newcomer of the U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife at (310) 328-1516.

MICHAEL ALEXANDER may be reached at (714) 966-4618 or at michael.alexander@latimes.com.