Florida Gulf Swimmer Hit by Pelican, Gets 25 Stitches
TREASURE ISLAND, Fla. — An Ohio woman is recovering after a pelican slammed into her face while she was swimming in the Gulf of Mexico.
Debbie Shoemaker of Toledo, Ohio, was swimming Thursday near Treasure Island, a beach community west of St. Petersburg, when she felt something hit her face. The bird's large beak ripped through her cheek, requiring 25 stitches. The 50-year-old housecleaner, who vacations in Florida about twice a year, returned home Friday.
"How was your vacation, Debbie?"
"Don't ask." |
Nature has collided with humans in Florida — alligators, fish and even stingrays have caused injuries or deaths — but local officials say they've never heard of a pelican hitting someone with so much force. An expert surmises the bird was likely nearsightedly diving for fish and hit Shoemaker by accident. The pelican died. |