By Peter Roos
An Ounce of Prevention
Each year, fishing tackle is the number one cause of injury to local seabirds (about 40% of Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary’s case load). In the case of Brown Pelicans, over 80% require care due to fishing tackle injuries. The severity of their injuries varies but the amount of time that a bird is entangled makes a huge difference in their success. Birds that receive immediate intervention often can be released the same day or within a few days, but birds that are found days after becoming entangled can have a far graver prognosis. Constriction injuries can lead to significant issues such as full tissue death due to loss of blood flow or severe joint infections that can impact future mobility. Any birds that are left with trailing line can become trapped in their evening roosts or left unable to feed themselves, leading to significant dehydration, starvation, and death. In November alone, the Indian Shores hospital admitted 62 pelicans. It can be very disheartening to see so many birds suffering from the same kind of injury, and the hardest part is that it is entirely preventable.
Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary says – “Here are all of the ways that you can help prevent birds from becoming injured by fishing line and hooks:”
- Use at least 30# strength test line to prevent line breaks.
- Never feed wildlife! Feeding wildlife encourages them to congregate near humans or approach humans, and this will inevitably lead to them becoming injured.
- Avoid casting your line(s) into congregating birds.
- Watch active lines at all times.
- Dispose of tackle properly.
NEVER CUT THE LINE IF YOU ACCIDENTALLY HOOK A BIRD
Gently reel the bird in & cover them with a towel/shirt/blanket. Push the hook through until you can see the barb & either cut it away or flatten with pliers. Remove all hooks and line before releasing the bird. If the bird is unable to fly away or you are unable to remove the tackle, call Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary at 727-391-6211.
Seaside Seabird Sanctuary | 18328 Gulf Boulevard, Indian Shores
www.seasideseabirdsanctuary.org