Tawny owl injured by discarded fishing line in Moss Valley

A tawny owl, believed to have been injured by discarded fishing line, has come into the care of the RSPCA.

The adult owl was found in the Moss Valley Park area of Wrexham before being taken to a nearby vets.

It is believed he had been caught by his wing and became injured whist trying to break free.

RSPCA inspector Kia Thomas said: “He doesn’t seem to have any serious injuries, so he was lucky he was found and the fishing line which was reported to have injured the owl was removed.

“The owl is doing ok and has had an x-ray and there are luckily no breaks in his wings. It is hoped that following rehabilitation he will be released back into the wild.”

She added: “This is sadly just another example of the dangers of fishing litter, and we urge people to take any litter home with them.”

Inspector Thomas transferred the bird of prey to RSPCA Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre, where he is currently received treatment.

Discarded fishing litter causes a number of injuries and deaths to wild animals each year.

Hooks can embed or pierce skin, or be swallowed, whilst the blood supply can be cut off an animal if it becomes wrapped in a line.

If you do encounter a wild animal you think needs help, call the RSPCA’s 24-hour emergency line on 0300 1234 999 or visit the charity’s website.

Advice from the RSPCA in relation to fishing litter, including its safe disposal, can be found here.