One of Comox Valley Search and Rescue’s most recent calls proves no call is too big, too small or too unusual for local crews.
The local SAR team says it has helped dogs, horses and sheep over the years, but a call last week involving a seagull tangled in fishing line was a first.
MARS Wildlife Rescue Society asked SAR for help reaching the exhausted seagull, which was on the Puntledge River.
Two SAR members paddled out in a kayak and were able to gently net the bird, named Kris.
The seagull was brought back to shore in a cage and taken to MARS for rehabilitation.
SAR says the incident was not an official task, and members used it as a training opportunity.
The team says the event serves as a reminder to collect and properly dispose of fishing line, which poses a risk to wildlife.
