Swanee

Out looking for a pelican with a large hook in his leg, we spotted a bird a the sandpit in Lake Illawarra looking very forlorn and reluctant to join the other pelicans for a free feed! He appeared unable to fly so on the phone to "hovercraft" John - fortunately he was at home and came straight over to pick up Australian Seabird Rescue team member Oliver. On approach though the bird did fly - great he must be OK.

But on the way over John had spotted a swan unable to fly so he and Oliver went to pick him up - success - he presented with poor quality feathers on his wings so straight off to the vet. A big thank you to Kim of Cannon & Ball veterinary for seeing us immediately as swans are prone to capture stress. It appears he has been caught in one of the many spot fires around the lake but his new flight feathers were strong and healthy - so ok to release and in a safe area he would be fine in a couple of weeks. Once again the hovercraft boys have been invaluable to us in assisting in search and rescue. Thanks John and Oliver

Of course there's still the pelican with the hook in his leg to be located and helped - eyes out there everyone please - thank you.

Betty.

Oliver holding the swan with damaged feathers due to a fire.