A LLANELLI gosling has been rescued and rehabilitated after cotton-type string became caught around his legs, causing injury.
RSPCA Cymru officers were alerted after the troubled gosling was seen with what was initially thought to be fishing line around his legs, at Sandy Water Park.
However, it was found to be cotton-type material which was wound around both of the bird’s legs.
The cotton was wound so tightly around the right leg that the gosling’s foot was badly swollen, and skin on his leg had cut.
An RSPCA officer transferred the gosling to Gower Bird Hospital on 24 May for rehabilitation and care. A week later, the bird’s leg had recovered and the RSPCA was able to return him to his family at Sandy Water Park.
The heart-warming moment the rehabilitated grey lag gosling was reunited with his family has been caught on camera, following the successful RSPCA rescue and rehabilitation of this poorly young bird.
While it is unclear where the cotton came from, the RSPCA say this incident acts as a reminder as to the dangers everyday objects can pose for animals – and has reiterated the importance of disposing of waste responsibly.
Paula Milton, RSPCA animal welfare officer, said: “I arrived at Sandy Water Park to find this poor gosling in serious distress, with cotton tied around his legs.
“The injuries were particularly bad on the right leg; with the skin cut and the foot badly swollen – so this gosling clearly needed our help.
“Fortunately, I was able to collect the gosling and take him to our friends at Gower Bird Hospital for a week’s rehabilitation.
“He made a full recovery and it was such a heartwarming moment releasing him back to his family – and they quickly all headed off together.
“This incident was a reminder as to how even the smallest discarded items can cause issues for animals.
“While it isn’t clear where this cotton came from, we always remind people to help prevent hazards for Wales’ wildlife by disposing of rubbish responsibly by recycling, reusing or simply putting it in the bin.”
The RSPCA’s inspectorate remains on the frontline during the Covid-19 crisis responding to animal welfare emergencies. Should you wish to help keep RSPCA officers on the road during the pandemic, you can support the charity online.
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