St James' Park is celebrating a rare arrival, with four pelican chicks hatching for the first time in more than 360 years. Park manager Mark Wasilewski said he was 'thrilled' by the pelican births, describing it as a 'breakthrough' moment for the park.
The new arrivals join the park's six adult pelicans — Gargi, Tiffany, Isla, Sun, Moon and Star — bringing the total flock to ten. They are currently being held in a private area of the park while they gain their strength and are expected to join the adults when they are between nine and 12 weeks old.
Pelicans first arrived at St James's Park in 1664 as a diplomatic gift from the Russian Ambassador to King Charles II. While the birds have been a familiar sight in the park since 1887, this is the first time they've successfully raised chicks there, according to the Royal Parks.
'I can't wait to watch their antics as they grow and join the wider flock and develop their own distinct characters,' Mr Wasilewski said. 'We have increased the feeding for the pelicans, so they have all the fish they need. Right now, our focus is on giving these chicks the safest and best possible start in life, so that they can be nurtured by their parents and grow into strong, healthy adult birds.'
He added: 'Dogs must be kept on a lead on the path around St. James's Park lake, and we urge visitors to please respect their space, particularly while they are still very vulnerable, to help ensure they do not become distressed or overwhelmed.'
The Royal Parks charity, which manages St. James's Park, is working closely with Blackpool Zoo, Royal Veterinary College, ZSL and Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust, to provide expert care for the chicks. Nick Burnham, Senior Wildlife Officer, The Royal Parks, said: 'It is vital that the chicks are not disturbed or approached while they are still very vulnerable. We will continue to monitor the chicks closely and ensure their parents are well fed with roach, their favourite fish, to give these new arrivals the very best start in life.'
'Pelicans are used to living in large flocks, so we think the new arrivals will settle in well. As the chicks grow, they may separate from the established flock of adults and do their own thing, like typical teenagers. We'll have to see what happens,' he added.
