Seabird rescuers told: stay away or get caught in landslips (From Bournemouth Echo)
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Seabird rescuers told: stay away or get caught in landslips
8:33am Wednesday 6th February 2013 in News
Seabird rescuers told: stay away or get caught in landslips
WELL-MEANING members of the public could be in danger if they try to rescue seabirds affected by pollution.
That’s the view of Durlston Country Park Coast and Marine Ranger Ben Wallbridge who fears people could become victims of recent landslips.
“Unless you know the area very well and know where the slips are likely to occur I would stay away from the cliff,” said Ben.
“The Chapman’s Pool area is particularly dangerous.
“If you are not careful you could end up waist-deep or worse in mud and become the subject of a rescue mission yourself.”
He urged members of the public to contact the RSPCA with any information about affected seabirds and to leave their rescue to them.
“It is also better for the birds if they are handled by people with experience,” said Ben.
Hundreds of birds have been washed up along the south coast after becoming covered in a sticky, oily substance of unknown origin.
Many are being treated in RSPCA centres but it is feared hundreds more have died from the cold and exhaustion.
Marc Smith from Dorset Wildlife Trust said: “If you see birds in your area please contact the RSPCA, who are leading the recuse effort.
“We don’t want anyone putting themselves in danger.”
Some birds are being cared for at the West Hatch animal centre in Taunton.
