RSPCA urges anglers to take care after swan suffers "awful" injuries in Sudbury
The animal charity is currently caring for the bird at its specialist wildlife centre in Norfolk.
The swan was discovered with two hooks from a nine-pronged triple pike hook stuck in his leg and webbing of his foot.
He was found by RSPCA animal collection officer Natalie Reed, who had originally been called out to another swan on 17th September.
She rushed the animal to the East Winch Wildlife Centre in Norfolk.
Natalie said: "Unfortunately, swans and geese are often admitted to our wildlife centres as a result of being entangled in, swallowing, or being injured by fishing litter. It’s heartbreaking to see."
The swan is now receiving antibiotics and pain relief after the hooks were removed.
Manager of the centre in Norfolk, Alison Charles, said: "I have seen a lot of wild animals with awful injuries caused by fishing litter in my time here at East Winch - but I’ve never seen anything like this.
"The poor swan had one of three triple-pronged hooks sunk into his leg and the other through the webbing of his foot. The hooks were joined with a plastic fake duckling which is used to confuse the fish.
"We strongly urge those who enjoy fishing to be extra careful to ensure nothing is left behind. Most anglers are very responsible when disposing of their litter, but it only takes one careless person to endanger the life of an animal."
The RSPCA are encouraging anglers to help prevent incidents like this from happening again, by:
- Taking unwanted fishing line home and cut it into pieces before binning.
- Make sure discarded line caught in foliage is removed.
- Don't leave bait unattended.
- Use a bait box to reduce the chance of leaving items behind.
- Don't leave hooks, weights or other items.
Anyone who spots an animal in distress should call the RSPCA's 24-hour helpline on 0300 1234 999.