Texas State Aquarium’s Wildlife Rescue Team Assists in the Evacuation, Rehabilitation, and Release of Hurricane-Displaced Mississippi Kites
September 20, 2024
Corpus Christi, TX – Following Hurricane Beryl's displacement of young Mississippi Kite fledglings from their nests in Houston, the Texas State Aquarium’s Port Corpus Christi Center for Wildlife Rescue swiftly intervened to provide assistance. From July 15 to July 23, a total of sixteen fledglings were brought to the Center, where they received thorough rehabilitation, including 24-hour care, hand-feedings, and health checks. After several weeks of dedicated care, thirteen of the sixteen fledglings were successfully returned to the wild just in time for their fall migration to South America.
“The successful evacuation, rehabilitation, and release of the Mississippi Kites displaced by Hurricane Beryl showcases our dedication to wildlife conservation and resiliency,” said Jesse Gilbert, President and CEO of the Texas State Aquarium. “Our team worked tirelessly to ensure these fledglings were ready to return to their natural habitat and continue their migration to South America. This operation reflects the core mission of our Wildlife Rescue efforts—to be ready and equipped to respond to wildlife emergencies when they need us most.”
The Mississippi Kites, hawk-like raptors known for their remarkable migratory patterns, were brought to the Center after high winds from the hurricane forced them from their nests. Initially weak and unable to forage, the young birds received round-the-clock attention from the Aquarium’s Wildlife Rescue and Animal Health Teams. They were hand-fed three times a day, had their wings and feet closely monitored, and received careful weight tracking to ensure proper growth.
As the fledglings grew stronger, they transitioned from a high-protein diet to learning critical survival skills such as tearing apart food using their talons. By mid-August, the birds were honing their flight abilities in the Center’s aviary, practicing swoops and dives in a controlled environment designed to mimic their natural habitat. Throughout the process, the wildlife care team took great care to limit human interaction, ensuring the fledglings would be fully prepared for life in the wild.
Finally, on September 19, thirteen Mississippi Kites were ready to be released. In partnership with the Texas Sealife Center, the Aquarium’s Wildlife Rescue Team returned the birds to their natural environment at Hazel Bazemore Park, just in time for their fall migration to South America.
To learn more about the Center for Wildlife Rescue and the aquarium’s conservation initiatives, visit Wildlife Rescue Center – Texas State Aquarium.
Photos and B-roll: Mississippi Kite Rescue and Release
About Texas State Aquarium
The Texas State Aquarium (TSA), the Official Aquarium of the State of Texas, is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) institution that is fully accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Its mission is to engage people with animals, inspire appreciation for our seas and support wildlife conservation. TSA, the largest Aquarium in Texas, cares for over 4,000 animals and has been named the #5 Best Aquarium in North America by USA Today. Learn more at texasstateaquarium.org.
###
Media Contact:
Carla Swallow
Marketing and Brand Manager
361.500.5412
cswallow@txstateaq.org