Injured Hadada Rescued and Treated by Dedicated Team in Lower South Coast

A successful rescue mission unfolded in the Lower South Coast today as a combined effort from concerned HCS community members, Lower South Coast SPCA and Dr Leon Bruggeman that led to the rescue and treatment of an injured Hadada.

The incident began when Ina Swart posted a picture on the HCS Facebook group of a Hadada with fishing line entangled around its feet. Antoinette Anderson, working in conjunction with the SPCA Lower South, swiftly responded and embarked on a mission to rescue the bird, their 15th attempt. With patience and persistence, the team successfully captured the hadeda and transported it to Dr. Leon Bruggemann for urgent medical attention.

The Hadada’s condition was severe, with dead toes and extensive damage caused by the constricting fishing line. Dr.Bruggemann performed the necessary procedures, including removing the fishing line, amputating dead toes, and treating a lice infestation. The Hadada is expected to recover well once the wounds have healed.

This rescue serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible fishing practices and the devastating impact that discarded fishing gear can have on wildlife. Chareen Singh, a member of the community, voiced a shared concern about the prevalence of fishing litter on beaches, urging fishermen to clean up after themselves and utilize the provided bins.

The collaborative efforts of Ina Swart, Antoinette Anderson, Mike Davis, Lauren Giani, Sonny, Dumisani, Dr. Leon Bruggemann, and the SPCA Lower South highlight the power of community action and the commitment to animal welfare in the Lower South Coast.

A big thank you to all involved for their dedication to the well-being of our wildlife.

#thelocalfirstchallenge