🟢 GREEN – VERIFIED REPORTING
The RSPCA has issued a warning after two herring gulls were rescued in separate incidents in the North East—one in Blyth and the other in central Newcastle—after becoming entangled in bird deterrent netting.
In the first case, a gull was found trapped on the roof of a home in Blyth, unable to free itself. RSPCA Inspector Helen Bestwick said: “At first I thought the bird was lifeless, but then I saw her move. Thankfully, the team from Northumberland Fire & Rescue were able to reach her using ladders.”
The gull was taken to Pawz for Thought in Sunderland for rehabilitation.
Just days later, another gull was spotted caught in netting on the fourth floor of the Vermont Aparthotel in Newcastle. RSPCA Inspector Lucy Green contacted Tyne and Wear Fire & Rescue Service, who used special equipment to reach the bird. Sadly, three other gulls were found dead nearby, including two kittiwakes.
Both birds are now recovering at wildlife centres, but the RSPCA warns these cases are part of a wider issue.
Inspector Green said: “These rescues came just in time. At this time of year, we get a rise in calls about birds becoming trapped as they try to nest. Netting can be deadly.”
The RSPCA is urging property owners to check any anti-bird netting regularly and ensure it’s maintained safely to avoid harm to wildlife.