A brightly colored toucan hanging out by an Orlando day spa today was all it took to turn a regular afternoon into neighborhood-breaking news. Neighbors pulled out their phones, social feeds lit up, and by evening, the unexpected visitor had made it onto local TV.
What WKMG Reported From The Scene
TV station WKMG's ClickOrlando shared video of the bird strutting around near the spa on Wednesday, showing the tropical escapee looking surprisingly at home in Central Florida. The station did not immediately report who owns the toucan or whether anyone had managed to safely contain it, according to ClickOrlando.
How Florida Handles Exotic Pet Owners
Florida does not just let people pick up a toucan and call it a day. Anyone who keeps non-native wildlife in the state has to get permits and meet specific rules for housing, experience, and caging. The exact paperwork depends on how the animal is classified, and some species come with an extra layer of red tape in the form of federal permits, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Why Escaped Exotics Are No Joke
Escaped exotic birds can often tough it out for a while, but by the time they are finally caught, many need veterinary care. In one recent case, a toucan that spent months on the loose in Las Vegas was eventually trapped and treated, after rescuers repeatedly urged residents not to chase or feed the bird so professionals could set up proper traps, as reported by FOX5 Las Vegas.
What To Do If You Spot The Toucan
If you see the bird, officials say this is not a DIY capture situation. Do not try to grab it, corner it or lure it with snacks. Instead, keep your distance, snap a photo if you can do so safely, and call Orange County Animal Services at (407) 836-3111. You can also reach out to the Florida FWC Captive Wildlife Office for help with escaped exotics at myFWC.
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