On April 14, 2025, a Canada goose was rescued from West Smethwick Park after a passerby noticed it struggling with a fishing hook embedded in its neck and beak. The RSPCA was contacted and responded to the scene.
RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Charlotte Holder described the bird's condition, noting the old fish hook was severely impacting the goose's ability to feed and move. The hook had become lodged in both her neck and beak, pulling her head downwards.
The rescue operation involved Inspector Boris Lasserre, trained in water rescues, and Ian Carrol from Swan Watch, who helped restrain the goose. The team successfully removed the hook and line, and after determining the wounds were superficial, released the goose back into the wild.
The Danger of Fishing Litter
The RSPCA is using this incident to remind the public of the dangers that fishing litter poses to wildlife. Discarded fishing lines, hooks, and netting can severely harm animals, especially water birds. Anglers are urged to be cautious and dispose of fishing waste properly. The RSPCA supports the Angling Trust Take 5 campaign, encouraging anglers to spend five minutes picking up litter after fishing. Recycling schemes are also available for safe tackle disposal.