Endangered Highland seagull caught in fishing hook saved after rescue team’s mercy mission
AN endangered Golspie bird tangled in a fishing hook and wire has been saved, after a mercy-mission from a skilled wildlife rescue team and specialist vets.
On Monday (October 20), the Brora-based Highland Wildlife Rescue team were called out to Golspie High School’s sports field, after reports of an injured gull.
The bird — named Alice — is a Great Black Backed Gull, a critically endangered animal on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List of Threatened Species. This list provides analysis of which species are most at risk of global extinction.
Jane Wilson, centre manager for the rescue, said: “Trailing over 10ft of fishing line, the beautiful bird was mobile but unable to fly, having swallowed this huge hook. The fishing line had then gotten wrapped across her neck, back, wings and right leg.
“The only responsible thing to do was to get her off to professional help at Rogart Vets in Tain, before getting her down to Invergordon for x-rays.”
According to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), the Great Black Backed Gull is a year-round resident across all of Scotland’s coast.
Jane continued: “Euthanasia must be considered where welfare concerns exist — it’s important to assess the wild patient’s condition, injuries, pain and likelihood of recovery. We never shy away from discussing our concerns and benchmarks.
“We discussed options, and agreed to go ahead with the procedure for hook removal, as she is in otherwise good body condition. We hoped we could remove the hook without causing further damage.
“Successfully, we got the hook out! No further issues were seen and we have agreed Alice’s recovery treatment. There’s no guarantee of a full recovery, but we are cautiously optimistic.”
Many animal lovers took to social media to thank Highland Wildlife Rescue’s efforts for the seagull.
Hazel Graham said: “Thank you for helping this bird. I wish people would dispose of things responsibly. I know fishing line gets tangled, but still, try and recover it please.”
Elizabeth Sharkie commented: “What an amazing bunch you are! Thank you for all that you do! Fingers crossed for a positive outcome for Alice!”
To donate to the Highland Wildlife Rescue charity, visit: www.peoplesfundraising.com/donation/highland-wildlife-rescue