Be alert for injured seabirds

A Manjimup wildlife sanctuary owner has asked for people visiting the coast to be on the lookout for any birds who have been injured by the seasons strong weather conditions.

Sequin Lodge Animal and Wildlife Sanctuary owner Karlee Reeve said at this time of year a significant number of seabirds washed up along the South West coastline.

“Many of the pelagic, or deep-sea species, are migrating during winter and often find themselves blown far off course due to severe weather conditions and typically wash up on local beaches exhausted and emaciated,” she said.

“Basically anywhere there is a beach, wash ups can and do occur.

“Two months ago we rescued a flesh-footed shearwater 2km inland from Banksia Camp in Walpole during a storm and our southern giant petrel was found recently at Marlimup Beach.”

Ms Reeve said there were two major breeding colonies off Walpole’s coast, on Saddle and Chatham islands.

“We have had four pelagic birds in care within the last three months and Parks and Wildlife reported 22 wash-ups within two months in the Walpole area, higher than most years,” she said.

“It is imperative that anybody who comes across a sick or injured sea bird on the south coast contacts WA Seabird Rescue, Walpole DPAW or their nearest DPAW licensed rehabilitator as soon as possible to ensure the best change of survival.”

Ms Reeve recommend members of the public should not handle birds because their strong beaks were capable of causing injury.