“[S]he was unable to fly” 💔
Last month, a sunny, warm day in Southwest Florida turned into a dramatic rescue when a paddleboarder spotted an unexpected sight on the water. From a distance, she noticed a floating ball of feathers—but as she drew closer, it became clear that a wild osprey was in urgent need of help.
According to the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW), the osprey had become entangled in discarded fishing line and was unable to fly because her feathers were soaked. The bird had also become tethered to nearby tree roots, making her rescue even more urgent.
Realizing the critical situation, the paddleboarder gently scooped up the bird and immediately contacted CROW for assistance. Volunteer Phyllis Hermann quickly responded, arriving in a rescue boat to carefully free the osprey from the mangroves. Once freed, the bird was placed in a secure rescue box and transported to CROW’s wildlife hospital for specialized care.
At the hospital, CROW’s veterinary team removed the fishing line and treated the osprey for minor injuries and dehydration. During the examination, they noted unusual breathing patterns, likely caused by inhaling water while struggling to free herself. The team began a course of systemic antibiotics and closely monitored her condition.
“Thanks to quick action and proper care, the osprey is in good body condition and is expected to make a full recovery,” CROW shared.
This rescue highlights both the dangers of discarded fishing line and the importance of wildlife awareness. CROW staff are optimistic about the osprey’s return to her mangrove habitat and hope her story encourages the public to dispose of fishing line safely.
“Improperly discarded fishing line is more than just litter—it poses serious risks to native and migratory wildlife,” CROW warned. “Be responsible when you fish and help protect our wildlife.”