By Alesha Capone
Werribee Open Range Zoo veterinarians say they have noticed an increase in the number of swans injured by fishing lines and hooks in suburban waterways and lakes in the west.
The vets have appealed to anglers to dispose of their unwanted lines and hooks in a responsible manner and always monitor their fishing lines.
Zoo veterinarian Dr Paul Eden said in the past two to three weeks, he had treated swans with hooks in their necks and stomachs, or caught in their legs.
“The majority have had hooks caught in their skin, particularly round the legs and stomachs, with fishing line around their legs too, which can cut off the blood supply or cause a wound,” he said.
“Sadly, there was one swan last week who swallowed a fish hook and unfortunately had to be euthanised.”
Dr Eden said wildlife carers had reported that swans were usually getting injured by, or swallowing, fishing lines and hooks dumped in or near water.
He said there were also reports of some people leaving their fishing lines unattended, particularly in the Sanctuary Lakes area.
Dr Eden said it was important that anglers disposed of their fishing lines and hooks in bins, such as the Zoos Victoria ‘Seal the Loop’ bins which are provided at waterways and beaches across the state.
He also said it was important to never leave a fishing line or rod unattended.
Dr Eden said two of the recently-injured swans were being looked after by wildlife carers.
“We’re hopeful they [the swans] will be able to be set free again,” he said.
