The juvenile Cape gannet rescued off Salt Rock beach about two weeks ago has made a full recovery at the Oceanographic Research Institute (ORI) facility at Ushaka Marine World.

The distressed bird was found in the surf entangled in fishing wire with hooks embedded in its gullet.

Despite efforts to stabilise the injured bird, it was not self feeding and was collected by the ORI for further care.

Ann Kunz from ORI said the juvenile bird had been successfully rehabilitated and would be released back into the wild soon.

Endemic to South Africa the Cape gannet’s main threats include dwindling food supplies due to over fishing, oil pollution and entanglement in long-line fishing nets.

The public can assist by reporting any oiled or injured seabirds to the Dolphin Coast Conservancy on 083 612 0859 or to Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife that runs a Strandings Network and is locally represented by volunteer Quentin Power on 082 789 3332.

All marine animals, including birds which are found dead or injured must be reported for the purpose of data recording.

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Points for creativity!