A seabird has been rescued in Mapperley Park after being blown of course during strong winds.
The Manx shearwater was lethargic but uninjured when recovered. It is thought it had become exhausted as a result of being blown off course.
The bird, one of two found in the city, has now been transferred to the RSPCA’s Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre, in Cheshire, where it will undergo rehabilitation before being released back into the wild.
Simon Parker, the RSPCA’s chief inspector for Nottingham, said: “It is unusual for Manx shearwaters to be blown so far inland, which just goes to show how strong the wind has been lately.
“Thankfully these two will now be looked after until they are strong enough to go back out into the wild, however there may be more which are blown into landlocked counties.
“They are very distinctive birds, easily identified by their black upper body and back, and white underside and belly. The birds have a sharp beak, which members of the public are urged to be cautious of.
“Anyone who sees a Manx shearwater in distress is advised to contact the RSPCA’s 24-hour advice and cruelty line on 0300 1234 999.”
In the last couple of weeks the RSPCA has taken in almost 300 Manx shearwaters across the UK following storms and high winds.
The islands of Skomer and Skokholm, in Wales, have around 50% of the UK’s Manx Shearwater population – the largest known concentration of the species in the world. In August and September the adults and juveniles leave the islands to migrate to the coast of South America, but strong winds can blown them off course.
For more information on what to do if you see a sick or injured wild animal, visit our website at www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/wildlife/injuredanimals
