Redcliffe Pelican’s Tragic Death Sparks Calls for Change on Houghton Highway

pelican death
Photo Credit: Google Map

A pelican’s agonising death on the Houghton Highway has ignited demands for safety modifications to prevent further tragedies.



Warning: Some photos associated with this incident may be distressing to readers.

The bird was found suspended from a street light, its beak fatally entangled in anti-perching wires.  Distressed motorists, witnessing the heartbreaking Redcliffe and Brisbane roadway scene,  pulled over and alerted authorities.

Increase Your Business Profile

Wildlife rescuers, including Twinnies Pelican and Seabird Rescue, expressed profound sorrow at the pelican’s needless suffering. They confirmed the bird had likely been trapped for up to five hours before succumbing to its injuries.

Join Mailing List

Local Resources

Helen Powers, a long-time advocate for bird safety in the area,  explained that the pelican, weighing approximately 7kg, probably became ensnared while attempting to land and balance the wires. She labelled the incident “unacceptable” and renewed calls for immediately removing the hazardous wires.

Powers stressed the responsibility of local authorities, including the Department of Transport and Main Roads, to respond to community concerns and implement preventative measures. She urged them to “put their thinking caps on” and find solutions to protect wildlife.

This is not the first time bird-deterrent spikes have caused harm. Local residents recalled a similar incident on Bribie Island Bridge, where community pressure eventually led to the removal of the harmful deterrents.

Environmental experts, like Richard Ogden from the Bribie Island Environmental Protection Association, highlighted the broader dangers to wildlife in the region. Mr Ogden pointed to the impact of urban development on bird habitats, stressing the importance of maintaining safe spaces for native species to thrive.

The rescuers urged government officials and local councils to prioritise wildlife safety by replacing the current deterrents with humane solutions. They also encouraged residents to report wildlife emergencies promptly to ensure quicker responses.



The Chermside Fire and Rescue crew eventually retrieved the deceased pelican.  Twinnies Pelican and Seabird Rescue emphasised the importance of prompt public action, encouraging individuals to report incidents immediately, even if they suspect others have already done so.  They stressed that the pelican should not have suffered for such an extended period.

Published-24-January-2025



Spread the love