Marine Science Center to release three shorebirds

Posted On: April 12, 2023

Two laughing gulls and a herring gull will once again feel the ocean breeze beneath their wings when the Marine Science Center’s seabird rehabilitation facility releases them at 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 14, at the Lighthouse Point Park dog beach, 5000 S. Atlantic Ave., Ponce Inlet.

The shorebirds were brought to the facility in February and March after they were found lying listlessly Volusia County’s beach. Following treatment for emaciation and dehydration, they completed the final stage of their rehabilitation in the facility’s 20-foot-tall flight cage, where they were able to build their muscles and practice diving for fish.

Since opening in 2004 on June 8, 2002, the Marine Science Center has treated more than 19,000 birds, many of which have been released.

The Marine Science Center is open to the public at 100 Lighthouse Drive, Ponce Inlet, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day but Monday. Visitors may view the turtle hospital and stroll along the bird boardwalk, which houses recovering birds and permanent residents. For more information, visit www.marinesciencecenter.com or call 386-304-5545.