#101 Counting for Conservation: A National Effort to Watch Over Australia’s Pelicans with Olly Pitt

Pelicans are not endangered, and that is precisely the challenge. Because they appear abundant, little research or funding is directed toward them. Yet on a local level, these birds suffer greatly—especially from discarded fishing gear. Volunteers and rescuers repeatedly encounter the same injuries: hooks embedded in beaks and fishing lines wrapped tightly around legs. Despite this, no national data currently exists to quantify the scale of the problem.Pelicount represents an opportunity to change that. Participants are provided with everything they need, from a code of conduct to clear instructions on how to distinguish adult pelicans from juveniles. People are encouraged to observe waterways, boat ramps, and anywhere pelicans tend to gather. Photos are welcomed and particularly helpful when identification is uncertain.For Olly Pitt, this is citizen science in its purest form. No academic background is required—just a willingness to observe and record. Every data point contributes to a broader picture that could help shape local policies or inspire more focused conservation efforts. While the exact applications of the data are still unfolding, she envisions maps, reports, and open access findings that empower communities to protect the wildlife around them.More Informationhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567242080891If you enjoy this podcast, please like and subscribe to our show wherever you get your podcasts.Leave us a comment and share this show with your friends.It really helps us to reach more citizen scientists, like you.Contact the ShowWe are always looking for more guests to tell us about interesting citizen science projects, research and events.You can email us at: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.