Hooked Gull in Berkeley

Late Wednesday afternoon, we received a call from one of our supporters in Berkeley. She'd successfully captured a gull with a hook lodged in its bill and needed help in getting it to a wildlife hospital or, at the very least, she thought the hook could be removed.


I responded to her call promptly and caught her finishing a conversation with, what sounded like, the City's animal shelter. I overheard a portion of the conversation which ended with them offering to come pick up the bird to euthanize it, to which she responded, "No, thank you."


Unfortunately, from our experience, this is not an uncommon response from a municipal agency. Something we aim to remedy.


After making a few arrangements with the RP (Reporting Party), I sent out an email/text blast to our East Bay responders. Winnie, from WildCare, was quick to reply. THANK YOU WINNIE!!!


Later that evening, I received an update. The visible hook had been removed, but there was fishing line down the throat, which meant there could be a second hook. X-rays to follow. 


This is an example of why it is never a good idea to just unhook a bird and release it. Hooked birds should always be examined by a wildlife rehabilitator.


We will keep you updated on its condition, as we get word.