Manx Wild Bird Aid - "2021 worst year yet for problems caused by fishing year"

A local bird charity has described 2021 as its 'worst year yet' for problems caused by fishing gear.

Manx Wild Bird Aid has taken to social media to vent its frustrations following birds becoming trapped, entangled and in the most serious cases - dying. 

The charity was called out three times yesterday to three different birds tangled in fishing line in Peel. 

MWBA says one bird had its legs tangled together, another had a hook embedded in his foot and line wrapped around his leg, and a young gull had a hook through his beak and line wrapped around his leg and wing. 

Unfortunately, two of the birds couldn't be caught and are still suffering - the charity is still trying to catch them. 

The charity has also confirmed three birds have died so far due to fishing gear.

A cormorant in Peel died last week due to fishing line around his legs and one young gull had to be euthanised after swallowing a massive hook, the third died with a hook lodged in his stomach.

David Cole, a trustee of the charity is urging people to be mindful of littering - he says it can leave birds trapped, unable to fly - or worse, can cause them to starve to death.

If you’d like to contribute towards the care and veterinary bills of these and other birds, you can donate here.