Sad end for an infant Gull - Healthy Life Essex

After a very pleasant cycle ride along Southend sea front following the cycle path around to Shoebury East Beach on Saturday morning, Jill and I stopped for refreshment and to relax in the in the warm September sunshine.

I spotted what appeared to be a seabird swimming and feeding out by the East Beach boom, but as the tide brought the bird further into shore we could sea that it was in trouble. A young couple had also seen the bird  and as I went down the beach to investigate Dean was already on his mobile phone, searching the internet for the phone number of the RSPCA. The RSPCA gave Dean the address of a local Veterinary Surgeon and a number to quote to cover any payment.

The infant gull was in a very sorry state, not being able to raise its head, and being buffeted by the waves.

Natalie brought out a cardigan to wrap the bird in and I picked up the bird and helped Natalie to cover it.

Later Dean and Natalie told us that sadly the bird could not be saved – it had a severe case of ‘botulism’ which is an illness caused by a poisonous substance called ‘botulinum toxin’.  Unfortunately the vet had to put it to sleep,  saying this was the best thing to do as the bird would have continued to suffer and it would have eventually died from the illness or if it was left on the beach it would have probably been pecked to death by other birds.

The Veterinary Surgeon in question (Downes of Thorpe Bay) said that most of this type of sea bird has botulism and this is the most common reason for them dying. It is caused by them eating rotting food.

 A sad end for this bird, but it’s nice to know that there are people who care enough to help, and strategies in place for this kind of situation. So thanks to Dean and Natalie, Downes Veterinary Surgery, and the RSPCA. Thanks for caring.