Holidays result in increased pelican injuries

Peninsula pelican rescuer Ms Wendy Gillespie has blamed school holidays for a recent increase in birds found with serious injuries to wings and feet from fishing tackle.

Ms Gillespie said school holidays are peak times for bird injuries on the Peninsula due to the higher number of people taking part in recreational fishing.

"Fishing line and hooks take a heavy toll on our birds and other wildlife particularly during the holidays but there are things that can be done to help," she said.

Ms Gillespie said she urged locals to report entangled birds early to a local wildlife rescue service.

"Don't feed birds while fishing or allow children or dogs to chase birds particularly around fishers," she said.

"Help birds, if you get them entangled don't cut them off but don't remove the tackle before more damage can be done.

"Get them to a local vet or call a rescue service if needed for advice or help," she said.

Ms Gillespie said she also urged fishers not to discard line, hooks or bait bags.

"Place all waste in bins and clean up any plastics and fishing waste when you can.

"Cover your bait and catch so that birds aren't attracted.

"Don't lash out at birds with knives or heavy objects as faces, wings and legs are easily damaged.

"Report cruelty to police and free-ranging dogs to Council Rangers."

Ms Gillespie is available to give advice or respond on 0458 975 498.

SOURCE:

Media release, 6 Jul 2017

Wendy Gillespie, Pelican Rescue and Research