People in Oklahoma weren’t the only ones affected by the recent record cold temperatures. So was the state’s bird population.
Some species in Oklahoma that are in their northernmost winter range, such as waterbirds like White Pelicans, were not equipped to endure the extreme drop in temperatures.
Double-crested Cormorants were hit particularly hard. Dr. Kyle Abbott, a veterinarian at the nonprofit wildlife rehabilitation facility WildCare in Noble, said he saw over 50 dead cormorants during a visit to Lake Hefner.
“They're designed to be insulated against cold water, but not this kind of subzero temperatures,” Abbott said. “And they're also a species that really relies on having a constant water source, both to maintain their hydration and so that they can fish. And since Lake Hefner was almost 100% fully covered in ice, they haven't been able to do their normal activities.”
He said there's also been an influx of robins appearing in urban areas in search of food since what they would normally forage for was covered by snow.
Contact WildCare for specific instructions regarding a wild animal of concern.
KGOU is a community-supported news organization and relies on contributions from readers and listeners to fulfill its mission of public service to Oklahoma and beyond. Donate online, or by contacting our Membership department.
