Gull injured by fish hooks released after treatment by SPCA Wildlife Center

ELKHORN SLOUGH, Calif. (KION) A Western Gull was rescued by the SPCA Wildlife Center recently after it was found with embedded fish hooks.

A nature photographer first saw the bird at Elkhorn Slough and called it in. After getting permission from Fish and Wildlife, a rescuer captured the bird.

The SPCA said the gull had two embedded fish hooks- one in its nostril and another in its wing- and the lines had trapped him to kelp and debris. The SPCA said that without help, it would not have survived.

For a week, the bird was treated with pain medications and antibiotics while its injuries healed. It also spent time in an aviary to regain muscle condition.

The gull was released Sunday near Moss Landing Beach.