Shocking injuries: some pelicans could not be saved
It took days earning the trust of the pelicans before they could be caught and untangled. Some were luckier than others.
Coffs Harbour
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It’s a message wildlife carers get tired of repeating.
Discarded fishing debris can have devastating consequences and it’s not that hard: put it in the bin.
WIRES volunteers have been forced to reiterate the message after recent rescue missions in Urunga and Nambucca.
There to lend a hand was Coffs Harbour veterinarian Dr Duan March who is currently on sabbatical from his usual role at Dolphin Marine Conservation Park.
But rescuing wily pelicans is never simple according to local WIRES volunteer Tina Birtles.
“We had to implement a strategic plan to gain each affected bird’s trust; offering small feeds of fish over the space of several days,” Ms Birtles said.
“Once we were able to get close enough Dr March donned his wetsuit and with expert timing and lightning speed he managed to contain each pelican with minimum fuss or stress.”
He untangled the fishing line and recommended further treatment with local vet Dr Kristie Neale, from Mid Coast Vets.
WIRES is pleased to report that three of the rescues were successfully treated by Dr Neale including one pelican with multiple hooks in its stomach.
After a few weeks in rehabilitation some have been released back into the waterways where they were rescued.
Unfortunately one bird could not be saved due to the extensive injuries to its leg.
It is a timely reminder of the devastating injuries that can happen to our unique marine wildlife as a result of discarded fishing tackle.
“Fishing is great fun for the whole family and we simply ask that people please take the time to collect all their fishing debris afterwards, especially any fishing line and hooks, and dispose in the council bins provided or take home to their own rubbish bins.
“WIRES would like to thank Dr March and Dr Neale for helping save and treat these majestic birds so they could return to their natural habitat.”
If you find any injured or entangled wildlife, call WIRES on 1300 094 737.
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