AN AFRICAN oystercatcher received a second lease on life after it was recently hooked by a fisherman’s hook in Illovo Beach when it mistook his bait for a meal.

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Luckily, the kind fisherman acted quickly and safely removed the hook from the bird’s beak before rushing it to the Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife (Crow). In a statement, Crow said that upon examination, it was discovered that the bird had injuries to the left side of its face.

“The bird was sent for further X-rays, and we are relieved to share that no additional hooks were found. For now, the Oystercatcher will remain at Crow, where it is being carefully monitored and is on its road to recovery. Every life we save reminds us of the fragility and preciousness of our wildlife. You can help us continue rescues like this,” it said.

The African oystercatcher is a relatively large shorebird, about 42–45cm in length. It is predominantly found along the coast, wading on rocky shores and sandy beaches. They mostly prey on molluscs, such as mussels and limpets, which they prise open or detach from rocks using their powerful, chisel-shaped bills.

Anyone who finds an injured or orphaned wild animal, or wants to support the mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and protect wildlife, can call Crow on 031 462 1127, or send a WhatsApp message to 083 212 5281, or send an email to info@crowkzn.co.za. Crow is located at 15A Coedmore Avenue, Yellowwood Park, and is open Monday to Sunday from 07:00 to 17:00.

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