Pelican that escaped from Fota in Cork spotted around Dublin Bay

Sean McKeown, director at Fota Wildlife Park, says it is not uncommon for the male pelican to fly off from the park.

A pelican is about to catch a herring during feeding time at Fota Wildlife Park, Cork, which will open to the public who are required to pre-book a time and date. Picture: Dan Linehan

The Great White Pelican that flew the coup from Fota Wildlife Park in Cork has been spotted flying around Dublin Bay, according to the director of the park.

Earlier it was reported that the bird was seen on the Avoca River, Co Wicklow but has since made his way further north.

Speaking to the Irish Examiner, Sean McKeown says it is not uncommon for the male pelican to fly off from the park.

"About two years ago he went as far as Wicklow for about four to five weeks and then came back," Mr McKeown said.

"I would almost certainly say he will come back this time, but it could be another week or two before he tours around the country."

While he doesn't have a name, the bird is known as Blue Tag, while the other Great White Pelican is known as Red Tag, corresponding to the colour tags on their feet.

"They're two half brothers that are in the park," Mr McKeown added.

While he doesn't have a name, the bird is known as Blue Tag, while the other Great White Pelican is known as Red Tag, corresponding to the colour tags on their feet. Picture: Denis Minihane.

When initially it was spotted just outside Arklow, it was believed the bird was wild, causing great excitement as it would have been the first sighting of a pelican recorded in Ireland.

They are usually found in swamps and shallow lakes around Southeast Europe, Asia and Africa.

The bird is capable of covering immense distances of up to 480km and eats around 1.5kg of fish every day.

The Great White Pelican weighs around 10kg and has a wingspan of around three metres, making it one of the largest flying birds in the world.

Earlier, a statement issued by Fota Wildlife Park confirmed that the bird was one of their two Great White Pelicans.

"These two birds have been regularly feather clipped to prevent them from flying," he said.

"However, a combination of feather regrowth and recent weather conditions allowed one of the male Great White Pelicans to get enough lift to take flight."

Fota says that their animal care team are monitoring any sightings of the bird and has reassured the public that the bird is not dangerous and "will fly away from people if approached".

"It is anticipated that he will return to Fota Wildlife Park for food once he becomes hungry."