Las Vegas Toucan ‘Sam’ Rescued After Months on the Loose | AP News

Toucan Named Sam Rescued After Months Living in Las Vegas Desert

LAS VEGAS (AP) — A toucan that has been seen flying around Las Vegas for months has been saved, a bird rescue group said Wednesday.

“We’ve all just been so worried about him,” said Skye Marsh, the president and co-founder of the SouthWest Exotic Avian Rescue. “It’s a relief.”

Sam the toucan has been living in Las Vegas since November, raising concerns among bird experts and enthusiasts about the exotic bird’s health and ability to survive the city’s drastic weather changes.

According to Marsh, Sam “decided it was time for help, and he flew into someone’s garage.” The homeowners recognized the toucan and secured the garage to prevent his escape. Sam’s story has captivated the Las Vegas community after his months spent surviving in the desert.

Following the rescue, staff transported Sam to a local veterinarian. While showing some signs of “wear and tear,” including dehydrated skin and a chip on his beak, he appears to be otherwise healthy, Marsh said. The veterinarian administered fluids and drew blood for analysis.

Marsh noted that Sam’s health had improved after the rescue group began providing healthier toucan food near a cage, hoping to entice him. She observed that his droppings appeared healthier in the days leading up to his capture.

Sam’s owners, who had previously posted on social media regarding his escape in November, have not yet been in contact with the rescue group.

The toucan will be quarantined at a staff member’s home for 30 to 45 days to ensure he does not carry bird flu, which could spread to other birds at the rescue, Marsh explained.