Sticky seabirds rescued

Friday 09 February 2018

The GSPCA says it has been called out twice this week to help stricken birds covered in sticky substances meaning they can't fly.

A guillemot was rescued at 00:30 today while earlier in the week a razorbill was found, covered in a clear glue or oily type substance.

The charity says both birds were "unable to swim or fly and were found thin and weak."

Both are now at the GSPCA animal shelter in intensive care units where staff and volunteers are trying to clean their feathers to aid their recovery.

The GSPCA is also asking members of the public to keep an eye out in case there are others affected:

"If you find an injured wild animal please call us on 01481 257261 for help 24/7, or you can visit our web pages for advice 

"When handling any bird covered in oil or any substance you have to take great care as it could put you at risk. Throwing a towel or jumper over the bird can help prevent touching the substance and also cover their beak which they will use to defend themselves.

"Keep them covered in darkness and getting them to the nearest vets or here at the GSPCA is the best advice or please call us any time day or night."

The GSPCA Manager, Steve Byrne says the main worry is an injured sea bird may try to head back out to sea so "it is always best to try and cut them off from the shoreline if you can do so safely."

Mr Byrne adds: “We have had awful weather recently which could have stirred substances from the seabed to the surface that have covered the birds but it is difficult to tell.

“If anyone is concerned for an animals safety or find a sick or injured bird you can contact us on 257261 and chose the emergency option 24/7.”

The charity is marking its 145th anniversary this week with a number of fundraising events focused around GSPCA Purple Week.

To get involved or to support the charity head here.

Pictured above: One of the injured birds found this week