Mystery surrounds seagull sickness

WILDLIFE RESCUERS swung into action on February 22, when dozens of dead and sick silver gulls washed up on beaches from Tallebudgera south to Coolangatta.

Rescuers were advised to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks and gloves, because the cause of the deaths and sickness was unknown.

Birds were wrapped in towels and picked up, and carry cages disinfected after use.

Reportedly about 20 of the gulls were still alive and taken for treatment at Currumbin Wildlife Hospital.

The hospital has sent samples away to be tested. It could take weeks to determine the cause of the mass deaths.

One rescuer took a “car-full” of about 15 birds to the wildlife hospital from Coolangatta beach.

She said while the gulls were comatose and looked lifeless, some had survived.

All the birds were emitting a bad smell.

A few days before, sick and dead seagulls were also picked up 100 metres south of Cudgen Surf Club at Kingscliff beach.

Five were alive but unable to stand, and one was dead.

The general public play a vital role in the sighting and rescue of wildlife in distress.

At any time, beachgoers in the Tweed Shire can come across injured and sick animals such as turtles, sea snakes and a variety of seabirds.

Report the find immediately to Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers (TVWC) on 02 6672 4789.

To pinpoint the location, you can choose to stay with the animal until a rescuer arrives, send a location pin to TVWC and/or select a suitable landmark.

Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue also has an emergency North Coast number: 0428 862 852.

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