A few weeks ago, Wildlife Rescue League’s Helpline received a call about an injured Canada goose at Brennan Park in Alexandria. The young goose had been seen with fishing gear tangled in his mouth.
Veterinarian Kim Danoff responded and met the finder at the park. Together, they searched carefully through the flock, scanning each bird. Time was critical – fishing hooks and line can cause severe injury, infection, and prolonged suffering if not addressed quickly.
After an extensive search, they finally spotted him. The goose had a hook lodged through his tongue, with lures hanging from his mouth.
Dr. Danoff safely secured the goose and began assessing his condition. Recognizing the extent of the injury and the pain he was experiencing, she transferred him to Blue Ridge Wildlife Center for further care.
At the center, veterinarian Jen Riley examined the goose and found areas of damaged tissue on his tongue. Using appropriate medical support, the team was able to safely remove the hook. He received pain management and supportive care, and by the following day, he was stable and ready for release.
A volunteer transporter returned him to Brennan Park, where he quickly rejoined his flock.
This goose, now named “Brennan”, was fortunate. Many wildlife patients are not as lucky.
Discarded fishing gear poses a serious threat to birds, turtles, and other wildlife. Hooks, line, and lures can cause life-threatening injuries, infections, and entanglement.
If you fish, please do your part:
- Dispose of fishing line, hooks, and lures in a secure container
- Never leave gear behind near waterways or parks
- Help protect the wildlife that share these spaces with us
Small actions can make a life-saving difference.
Written by Dr. Kim Danoff, a veterinarian with extensive avian rescue and medical experience. Dr. Danoff has been volunteering with WRL for the past several years.
