Lost Toucan Found and Rescued After Months in Las Vegas
LAS VEGAS, Nev. — After months of eluding capture, a toucan that had been on the loose in Las Vegas since November 2025 was safely recovered this week when it unexpectedly flew into a local homeowner’s garage. The bird, affectionately known as Sam Toucan, had become a familiar figure in the community and a focus of concern for animal rescue groups.
Southwest Exotic Avian Rescue, the organization dedicated to finding and caring for Sam, was alerted immediately when the homeowners recognized the bird from news reports and contacted the rescue team. Skye Marsh, a rescuer with the group, quickly took Sam into custody and transported him to a veterinarian for a thorough health assessment.
“His beak is a little beat up. He’s got some missing patches of feathers and stuff. You can tell that he’s had some run-ins with things. The tip of his beak is chipped off. So he’s got some stories in that little bird brain,” Marsh told KVVU-TV. Despite the hardships, Sam appears to be in remarkably good health considering he has been on his own since November 14.
Sam’s survival in the arid climate of Las Vegas is notable given that toucans are native to humid environments. Marsh explained the challenges in caring for such an exotic bird, emphasizing the importance of specialized care. “Just trying to give them tap water can kill them because they can build up iron in their system and it can kill them,” she said. This highlights the critical need for expert intervention to ensure Sam not only survives but thrives.
Currently, Sam is in quarantine while veterinarians conduct bloodwork and other tests to confirm his health status. The rescue team is coordinating efforts to provide the necessary environment and nutrition that meet the unique needs of toucans, which are rarely found outside tropical habitats.
The incident underscores the vital role of local rescue organizations and the public in wildlife preservation. Southwest Exotic Avian Rescue has been actively involved in the search since Sam’s disappearance, demonstrating the dedication required to protect exotic animals far from their natural homes. For more information on exotic animal rescue and care, the U.S. Geological Survey offers resources on wildlife conservation.
Sam’s story has captured the hearts of many in Las Vegas and beyond, serving as a reminder of the unexpected challenges wildlife face when displaced. The successful capture and ongoing care of Sam Toucan is a testament to community vigilance and expert intervention, ensuring this colorful bird’s second chance at a safe life.
For updates on Sam and other exotic animal rescues, visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Southwest Exotic Avian Rescue’s official channels. This case also highlights broader issues surrounding exotic pet ownership and the importance of proper care and containment, topics addressed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
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