While prepping the motorboat for a visual survey trip along St. George Island several weeks ago, I noticed a lone waterbird floating nearby. At first glance, I assumed it to be a migratory loon. I later learned it was a Northern gannet who spend most of their life at sea. The gannet seemed lethargic and/or injured as it attempted to fly twice, but quickly landed each time. I quietly observed the bird for obvious signs of injury like tangled fishing line or disfigurement. Malnourishment is a frequent cause of death in seabirds.
The gannet swam near the boat and then onto the shore nearby. I wondered if it had been acclimated to humans, like the pelicans routinely seen lingering on fishing docks. However, this bird seemed “off,” not behaving like a bird that was accustomed to humans. It couldn’t stay fully upright on the shoreline. Concerned for the bird’s health, FWC was contacted and arrangements were made for transport to Florida Wild Mammal Association, a licensed wildlife rehabilitator able to assess injuries.
They provided care for a significant respiratory infection.
Thank you volunteers Elizabeth Swiman, Katie McCormick and Christopher Bischoff for assisting with this effort.
WILDLIFE ALERT HOTLINE
Contact FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-3922 to speak directly to an FWC representative.
From FWC: Generally, if you find a baby animal it is best to leave it alone. Rarely are animals actually orphaned; the parent may be searching for food or observing its young from a distance. Do not pick up baby animals or remove them from their natural environment. Instead, report wildlife you think may be injured or orphaned to the nearest FWC Regional Office.
When encountering injured wildlife, please contact the appropriate FWC-licensed wildlife rehabilitator in your area. A list of wildlife rehabilitators by county can be accessed here: Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitators.
You can also contact the appropriate FWC Regional Office for local wildlife rehabilitator contact information.
If the animal is a domestic or feral animal, such as a dog, cat or horse, please contact the nearest Humane Society, Animal Services Office or Animal Control Agency.
By Georgia Ackerman, Riverkeeper and Executive Director at Apalachicola Riverkeeper. She can be reached at Georgia@apalachicolariverkeeper.