Editor’s Note: The Snowy Egret is part of the CROW CAW (Case A Week) series, which tells the stories of the patients at the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife on Sanibel Island, the dangers they face, and how we can help protect all of our wildlife. Read previous cases here.
Snowy Egrets are a common Florida species, often sighted along shores, marshes, and swamps throughout the state. These birds have pearl-white feathers with black beaks and legs and are recognizable for their yellow feet. They wade in shallow water, using the sit-and-stay method to catch prey.
Unfortunately, like other bird species, Snowy Egrets often fall victim to fishing gear discarded in our environment. Discarded fishing lines and hooks can easily entangle birds, leading to severe injuries or death. These accidents harm individual animals and our delicate ecosystems, as every species plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance. Fishing line injuries can cause damage to a bird’s skin, feathers, muscles, nerves, and bones. Birds can become trapped, leading to further injury or starvation. Fishing accidents are a common occurrence in patients admitted to CROW due to the high volume of recreational fishing in Florida and the improper disposal of fishing gear.
This Snowy Egret (24-3133) was admitted after being entangled in a fishing line. The initial prognosis revealed that the Snowy Egret was quiet, alert, and cold but able to stand. Secondary feathers on the left wing were missing, and a fishing line was wrapped tightly around the second digit (toe) on the left foot. Upon further examination, the digit was dislocated and bruised.
Staff put the dislocated digit back into place and gave the patient pain medication and fluids to keep the patient hydrated. A splint was placed on the foot to help the tissue heal. The extent of the tissue damage is not fully declared yet, so staff are planning to reassess if amputation is necessary.
To prevent injuring wildlife through discarded fishing gear, it is important to properly dispose of fishing waste, such as hooks, line, lures, or even bait. Fishing lines are recyclable, and many beaches or fishing hot spots in Florida have areas to dispose of the line. You can also avoid using barbless hooks and removing the hook during catch and release. For more information, visit mindyourline.org.
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