Four pelicans in California were held on suspicion of being drunk on sea algae after one of them crashed headlong into a car. The animal suffered internal injuries as well as a long gash in its pouch.

According to reports, it is undergoing toxicology tests at a Southern California wildlife center.

The three other pelicans were later found wandering while dazed and confused in the streets of Laguna Beach.

Australia's The Age reports assistant wildlife director Lisa Birkle warned the public to be on the lookout for birds acting "drunk", disoriented or being in an unusual place.

The pelicans were likely under the influence of algae, which can produce domoic acid poisoning when eaten.