A greater black-backed gull was rescued this week in Burnham after it was found with two large fishing hooks trapped in its throat.
The bird was seen behind Lloyds Bank in Burnham High Street with fishing line wrapped around its body and a large heavy weight attached.
Secret World Wildlife Rescue volunteer Greg Kelloway caught the large seabird and after a quick assessment it was promptly shipped to Quantock Veterinary Hospital in Bridgwater for treatment.
Hannah Brown from Quantock Vets said: “The gull had two fishing lines coming out of its mouth and we could see there were fishing hooks inside.”
“We did x-rays to find out exactly where the hooks were, and then had to carefully remove the hooks which were embedded in the flesh of the bird’s throat.”
“The gull woke up quickly after surgery and did very well. After being given pain relief and antibiotics the gull went back to Secret World the same day to recuperate.”
The gull has been recovering well in the hospital room at Secret World in East Huntspill, and the animal carers hope to release the bird back to the wild soon.
Laura Benfield, head of Animal Care at Secret World, said: “We urge people to take great care not to discard fishing tackle as it can cause painful and life-threatening injuries like these.”
“The quick response of the finder in calling us, and the skilled treatment by Quantock Vets, have thankfully given this impressive bird (which is still only a young greater black backed gull!) a second chance. Other birds are not so lucky, so please take care.”
