RSPCA and firefighters rescue bird – from a tree
A CHICK had to be rescued by Bristol firefighters after getting stuck in an unlikely location.
The jackdaw became trapped in its home habitat, a tree, and was seen dangling upside down like a bat on Tuesday.
Passers-by spotted the animal in distress in Redfield, and a dramatic rescue mission led by the RSPCA ensued as it flapped 25ft above the ground.
The jackdaw, thought to have only recently flown the nest, was trapped by a piece of wool that had become wound around its leg.
RSPCA animal rescue officer Ali Sparkes said: “Members of the public spotted this young bird flapping upside-down and kindly called for help.
“The young jackdaw, who it appeared had recently fledged the nest, had some wool-like material wrapped around a leg which had become caught on the branch.”
It happened along Blackswarth Road at about 3.30pm yesterday.
A crew from Avon Fire and Rescue Service climbed a short ladder and broke the thin branch, using the blade on Ali’s specialist rescue pole.
She was then able to catch it and carefully cut away the length of wool.
The fire service confirmed: “Firefighters from Temple responded to reports of a bird stuck in a tree.
“The crew used one triple extension ladder to rescue the bird, and was assisted by the RSPCA with a long-reach pole.”
The male bird was taken to RSPCA West Hatch Wildlife Centre near Taunton, where it will receive treatment before being released close to the rescue scene.