As summer approaches, many of us look forward to enjoying the great outdoors and soaking up the sun. One popular activity is fishing, which not only provides relaxation and recreation but also attracts a variety of birds eager to feast on the food we leave behind. While it's wonderful to share these moments with nature, it's important to recognise that the presence of fishing gear can pose significant risks to birds.
Birds may become entangled, injured, or even caught in fishing lines, leading to unnecessary suffering. By adopting bird-safe fishing practices, we can help minimise these dangers and ensure everyone is kept safe.
What Does the Wildlife Welfare Organisation (WWO) Do?
WWO is dedicated to rescuing and caring for all species of native wildlife, with a special focus on water, shore, and sea birds. As a volunteer-based organisation, WWO relies on the support of the community to continue their vital work.
When it comes to rescuing birds in distress, WWO recommends that you do not attempt to remove hooks or handle injured wildlife yourself. Instead, contact WWO, and they will arrange for professional veterinary assistance to ensure the best care for the birds.
Bird Safe Fishing Practices
Implementing bird-safe fishing practices is essential to reduce the risk of harm to birds. Here are some recommended guidelines from WWO:
- Never Feed Birds: Avoid offering bait, undersized, or released catch to birds. This prevents birds from associating humans with food sources that can lead to dangerous interactions with fishing gear.
- Protect Your Landed Catch: Keep your catch secure and out of reach of birds to prevent them from getting entangled or injured.
- Maintain a Clean Fishing Area: Dispose of rubbish and unused bait in covered bins to avoid attracting birds to your fishing spot.
- Careful Casting: Do not cast your line when birds are nearby. Instead, sink bait and berley quickly to minimise the chances of birds encountering fishing lines.
- Monitor Active Lines: Always keep an eye on your fishing lines to quickly address any issues that may arise.
- Properly Dispose of Fishing Lines: Cut up or burn unwanted lines before disposing of them at waste management facilities to prevent bird entanglements.
What to Do If You Hook a Bird: 5 Essential Steps
Accidents can happen, even with the best intentions. If you accidentally hook a bird, follow these steps to ensure its safety:
- Do Not Cut the Line: Avoid cutting the fishing line. If the line breaks, proceed directly to step 5.
- Slowly Reel In: Gently reel in the line or encourage the bird to fly towards you without causing further stress.
- Protect Your Eyes: Wear protective eyewear such as glasses, sunglasses, or safety glasses to safeguard your eyes during the rescue process.
- Gently Restrain the Bird: Use a towel to cover the bird's head and wings, providing gentle restraint. Larger birds may require assistance from another person.
- Contact WWO Immediately: Call WWO at 0434 114 628 for professional assistance. Keep the bird restrained if the line breaks and help the rescuer by keeping track of the bird's location.
