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Sea eagle saved after x-ray shows he swallowed two fish hooks in Highlands

The x-ray showed the two hooks that the eagle had swallowed
The x-ray showed the two hooks that the eagle had swallowed

Animal experts have saved the life of a young white-tailed sea eagle which swallowed two fish hooks.

The bird of prey was also wrapped tightly in fishing line when it was found at Loch Arkaig in Lochaber recently.

The six-week-old male bird has since undergone a successful operation at the Scottish SPCA’s National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Alloa.

X-rays of the eagle show the two hooks stuck in its chest.

Local conservation officer Lewis Pate, who found the bird, said: “The fishing line was wrapped so tightly around the sea eagle’s body that I almost didn’t spot it at first.

The sea eagle
The sea eagle had two hooks stuck in its chest

“Thankfully I was able to remove the external line but because he had also ingested hooks I had to remove him from his nest to get help. He would undoubtedly have died a very slow and horrible death otherwise.

“I took the chick over to Fort William by boat and then drove him to a vets in Inverness before he was taken in by the Scottish SPCA. I am absolutely delighted he has been saved.”

Centre manager Colin Seddon said: “The bird had been feeding on a fish which still had hooks in it.

“Our vet Romain Pizzi did a heroic job and managed to remove the hooks using an endoscope.

“Our aim will be to keep the chick in our care until he fledges at around 12 weeks old. We will then take him back to its nest area for release.”

The sea eagle was also wrapped in fishing line when it was discovered
The sea eagle was also wrapped in fishing line when it was discovered

Mr Seddon has urged fishing enthusiasts to clear up after themselves following this incident.

He said, “Although the majority of fishing enthusiast are responsible and clear away their lines and tackle after use, sadly, there is a minority who do not and this causes suffering to many animals every year.

“We would urge all anglers to consider the welfare of wildlife and clear away any lines and tackle after use as this could save an animal’s life.”

Anyone who discovers an injured or distressed wild animal should call the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.