On a chilly Saturday afternoon in Morpeth, members of the public (MOPs) came across a magpie tangled in fishing line in a tree on the banks of the Hunter River.

They called Hunter Wildlife Rescue and when volunteers, Wendy and Karen, arrived it seemed like an impossible task. The bird was tangled in fishing line, hook through her beak and hanging high in a tree over the river. The closest access point was about to be under water as the river rose.

Our rescuers were so grateful for many concerned members of the public on site who brainstormed ideas and pooled resources for a successful rescue.

The MOP who reported the magpie and his father made a quick dash home to get some equipment. Some local fishermen joined in the rescue to place their boat under the bird in case it fell into the water. Using a tree saw to cut the line and a fishing net taped to a long pole, the group were able to safely deliver the distressed bird into Wendy’s⁩ arms.

The magpie was quickly transported to carer Lisa⁩ who expertly removed the hook and line and will now care for it until ready for release.

It was so encouraging to have so many concerned people willing to help. The outcome could have been very different without the assistance of some quick thinking members of the public.

What turned in to quite a crowd, everyone was incredibly relieved when we got the bird down, including the birds mate who appeared as soon as she was saved.  Once recovered, the magpie will be released in the same spot in hopes it will reunite with its mate.