Birds and other aquatic animals can be injured by accidental hooking and they may also become entangled in unattended lines or discarded fishing tackle. The injuries can be severe but can be avoided.

To reduce injuries

• Fish away from bird feeding and nesting areas.
• Avoid using unattended lines.
• Avoid using stainless steel hooks which take years to break down in the environment.
• Collect and dispose of any discarded fishing line, other gear or rubbish.
• Cut discarded fishing line into small pieces to avoid entanglement in case birds and other animals scavenge rubbish bins.
• Don’t leave ANYTHING behind. Even plastic bags can prove fatal when sea turtles mistake them for natural jellyfish prey.

If you hook a bird

• Don’t panic, stay calm.
• Don’t cut the line.
• Gently reel the bird in. Even pelicans can be slowly hauled ashore and contrary to popular myth, they are generally placid birds.
• Place a towel or shirt over the bird’s head and eyes then carefully try to remove the hook or line.
• Do not release the bird if the hook has been swallowed or is embedded too deeply to remove easily.

For rescue advice or if you see injured wildlife contact

• Australian Seabird Rescue
• • North Coast 02 6686 2852 or 0428 862 852
  • Central Coast 0438 862 676
  • South Coast 0431 282 238
• WIRES on 1800 641 188 or your local wildlife rescue group for injured native animals
• National Parks and Wildlife Service for injured whales, dolphins and seals.