Recently a guest, John Erickson, found a juvenile tropicbird seemingly abandoned on the beach. Initially we decided to leave the young bird in the hand of nature, hoping that a parent would be caring for it. However, after a few days it was apparent that the bird was getting weaker and alone and thus vulnerable to stray dogs, carrion or starvation. I decided to bring the young bird to the hotel and give it a more secure space to mature. Upon examination the bird seemed healthy and readily ate raw fish cut into strips. I am currently feeding him 4 to 6 ounces per day.
Here is his picture. A friend of mine, Kathy, named him, "Larry-bird:"
John also suggested a few things: give the bird an area to bathe, and exercise its wings by gently tossing him in the air but not letting him fall. Flapping his wings would help build strength and balance.
(Adult)
