Wild Lives: EPISODE 1
Featuring our animal ambassador, Marlin the Pelican.
Welcome to our newest series, “Wild Lives”, where we dive into the fascinating stories of the animals that call Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary home.
In this first episode, we’ve interviewed Wendy Welch, Presentations Manager, to get to know one of the most famous animals at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary: Marlin.
Who is Marlin?
Meet Marlin, a true star at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary! Celebrating 23 years laps around the sun this month, Marlin is a remarkable pelican with an inspiring story. He was rescued as a young bird after suffering significant injuries from an unfortunate encounter with a larger sibling. Such conflicts are not uncommon among pelicans, but thanks to the care he received, Marlin has grown into a strong and healthy adult.
What Are His Superpowers?
Pelicans are incredible flyers! Marlin, like his wild Pelican friends, can stay in the air for up to 24 hours and cover thousands of kilometers without flapping his wings. When he does fly, he can reach speeds of up to 56 km/h—quite impressive for a bird!
FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT PELicans
Here are some cool facts about pelicans that you might enjoy:
- Their wingspan can stretch up to 2.5 meters wide
- Adult males can weigh up to 8kg
- Their bills can grow up to 40-50cm long
- Pelicans are commonly found all around Australian waterways
- They primarily feed on fish and crustaceans
- Their bills have sensitive sensors that help them locate fish underwater
Why are pelicans so unique?
Pelicans are Australia’s heaviest flying birds, and their bills are the longest of any bird species. What's more, their bills have a built-in fishing hook, making them expert fishers!
What is your favourite thing about pelicans?
One of the most charming things about Pelicans like Marlin is the unique sound their feet make as they enjoy a walk around the park. It’s truly something you'll have to hear some day!
Why should WE care about pelicans?
Pelicans, like many waterbirds, are prone to fishing line entanglements and ingestion. By properly disposing of rubbish and fishing tackle, you can play a part in protecting these magnificent birds and their habitats from injury and death.
Come and Meet Marlin!
We invite you to visit Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and experience our WildSkies Free Flight Bird Show (map ref V4) or join us for the Pelican & Eel Feeding (map ref N12) session. You’ll have the chance to meet Marlin and his Pelican friends up close. And who knows—you might even hear the delightful sound of their feet as they enjoy a stroll around the park.
We hope you enjoyed getting to know Marlin and learning more about these amazing birds. Stay tuned for more stories from our Wild Lives series!