A routine call quickly turned into a delicate rescue mission when a hadeda ibis was found hanging helplessly from a tree in Midrand after becoming entangled in discarded fishing line.
Image used for illustrative purposes/Bernard DUPONT from FRANCE/Wikimedia Commons
Thanks to the quick actions of the Midrand SPCA, the exhausted bird was safely freed and returned to the wild, Good Things Guy reports.
The rescue took place on 16 July after concerned members of the public alerted the SPCA to the stranded bird. On arrival, inspectors Jerry Seemise and Richman Sibande discovered the hadeda suspended high above the ground, unable to escape the fishing line wrapped around its legs.
Realising the bird’s condition could quickly deteriorate, the inspectors acted without delay. Seemise carefully climbed the tree while Sibande assisted from below, ensuring the rescue could be carried out as safely as possible.
Working patiently, the pair cut away the fishing line and gently lowered the hadeda to the ground, where the remaining line was removed from its legs.
Once freed, the bird recovered quickly, stretched its wings and flew off back into the wild.
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A reminder of the dangers of discarded fishing line
While the rescue had a happy ending, the SPCA says it also highlights the hidden dangers that litter such as fishing line poses to wildlife.
Discarded fishing line can easily entangle birds and other animals, often causing severe injuries or death if they are unable to free themselves.
The organisation urged the public to dispose of fishing line responsibly, reminding people that a simple act of care can prevent unnecessary suffering for wildlife.
The successful rescue is also a testament to the dedication of SPCA inspectors, who respond to emergencies involving animals of every kind, from domestic pets to wild birds.
As this hadeda’s story shows, even one piece of discarded fishing line can become life-threatening—but it can also serve as a reminder that small actions by people can make a significant difference for the wildlife that shares our environment.
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