A YOUNG seagull was saved by a Newton Abbot vet after a fish hook became lodged through its beak.

The gull had been found in a distressed state by a member of the public in the town who took it to Amity Vets in Brunel Road.

A spokesman for the vets said: ‘A kind-spirited member of the public brought the sea gulls to us, as we were the closest vets.

‘We often get calls about wildlife and while we cannot collect any wildlife, if a member of the public can bring the animal to us, we are always happy to have a vet take a look.’

The spokesman said the incident is a reminder of the dangers of discarded fishing gear and urged the public to be vigilant.

After careful treatment and dedicated care, the bird is now recovering in a wildlife rehabilitation centre and is expected to be released back into the wild.

The spokesman added: ‘This incident highlights the real danger that discarded hooks, lines, and tackle pose to seabirds and other wildlife.

‘Even a single piece of left-behind fishing gear can cause serious injury or death.’

Staff at the vets are urging anglers and beachgoers to take responsibility for their equipment: remove all hooks, lines, and tackle from the environment and dispose of them safely.