Handling and Release of Hooked and Entangled Birds

Most seabirds are caught during line setting, and are therefore dead by the time gear is hauled. However, if you discover a live seabird on the line, release the tension on your mainline by slowing your vessel to a stop. Ease the bird to the side of the vessel by steadily bringing in the line. Do not make sudden jerks. It is recommended to carry out and use a long-handled dip net to bring the bird on board.

Seabirds can be quite large and will bite, so gloves, eye protection, long sleeves and the help of a crewmember are all useful to have. The following are helpful tips for the correct way to hold a bird:

  • Hold it behind the head at the top of its neck
  • Fold the feathers and wings back into their natural position against the body
  • Do not accidentally restrict its breathing by covering its nostrils or squeezing the body too tightly
  • Cover its body with a clean towel (without any sign of oil or petrol) to protect the bird’s feathers from oils and other things that could damage it during handling

Seabird Dehooking

A video about seabird dehooking is available on YouTube at http://youtu.be/eLK1BPV_Wic.

Or check ACAP Guidelines on how to dehook a bird at https://www.acap.aq/bycatch-mitigation/hook-removal-from-seabirds-guide