THE issue of discarded fishing line and hooks has again been thrust into the spotlight after the rescue and death of a Swift Tern (Thalasseus bergii) from the Umhlanga Lagoon last week.

Discarded fishing tackle and netting can cause entrapment injury and death to many animals including birds and x-rays revealed that the animal had swallowed two large fishing hooks. Frequently seen along sea shores, river mouths, and lagoons, the bird feeds mainly on fish.

The bird was initially rescued by local bird rehabilitator Sarah Keyser who found it with fishing line protruding from its mouth. Keyser then got the bird to SA Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR) Animal Health Department for urgent veterinary care.

Also read: Protect woolly-necked storks, say uMhlanga residents

SAAMBR spokeseperson Ann Kunz said the bird was already weak and underweight when it was brought in.

“Radiographs (X-rays) revealed that the tern had swallowed two large fishing hooks, lodged deep within its stomach. Already weak and underweight, the bird was stabilised before our veterinary team performed delicate surgery to successfully remove both hooks and the attached fishing trace.

“The tern initially recovered well and received intensive veterinary care, pain relief, fluids and nutritional support. Sadly, despite every effort to give this little bird a fighting chance, its condition deteriorated, and it passed away,” she said.

Kunz said the incident was a reminder that discarded fishing tackle can have devastating consequences.

“Anglers and beachgoers can help protect marine wildlife by disposing of fishing line, hooks and other tackle responsibly, and by reporting injured or entangled seabirds to the appropriate wildlife rescue service.”

For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook ,X or  Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here