Plea after fish hook found in swan’s leg
The RSPCA was called to help after a member of the public spotted a distressed swan at the River Avon in Bath.
The swan’s leg had been pierced by a fishing hook, with fishing lure and line attached.
She was spotted in the Newbridge Road area of the River Avon and RSPCA animal rescue officer Dean Wilkins was able to entice her towards him with food before safely capturing her.
The swan was taken to a vet on July 25 where she was sedated and the large hook and lure was removed.
She was then released back into the river at the same spot where she was able to rejoin her mate and cygnets.
Mr Wilkins said: “Fishing litter in our waterways such as discarded lines and hooks can easily snag water birds and other wildlife, causing terrible injuries and suffering.
“We strongly urge those who enjoy fishing to be extra cautious to make sure nothing is left behind. “Most anglers are very responsible when disposing of their litter, but it only takes one careless person to endanger the life of an animal. If members of the public see discarded litter we would encourage them to pick it up safely and put it in the bin, remembering to wash their hands afterwards. “This could save an animal’s life.” Nearly 40 per cent of all litter-related calls to the RSPCA last year were about animals that had become caught in discarded fishing materials.
They included a call about a seal being strangled by some old fishing net, and dozens of swans who swallowed or were pierced by old fishing hooks or became entangled in fishing line.
The charity is asking all those who enjoy fishing to follow the Angling Trust Take 5 campaign and use the recycling scheme to dispose of waste tackle. For information about how to dispose of fishing litter properly, visit www.rspca. org.uk/adviceandwelfare/litter/fishing
Top tips include:
■ Take unwanted fishing line home and cut it into pieces before putting it in the bin.
■ Be aware of surrounding trees – discarded line caught in foliage causes problems for wildlife.
■ Don’t leave bait unattended – always remove from the hook and put it in a safe place.
■ Use a bait box.
■ Dispose of any litter you see, even if it is not your own.