Goose Rescued from Fishing Line at New Hartford’s Rayhill Trail
A goose was rescued on Tuesday evening along the Rayhill Trail in New Hartford. The Woodhaven Wildlife Center received a call about the bird in distress. It had become tangled in fishing line in the water, which was wrapped around its neck. This prevented the goose from flying.
Rescuers used a kayak to reach the bird. They cut the fishing line and helped the goose to shore. Once on land, they captured the bird and removed the rest of the line from its neck.
Judy Cusworth, the founder of the Woodhaven Wildlife Center, stated that incidents like this happen frequently. She mentioned that two other geese had been sent to Cornell Wildlife Hospital this year for injuries from fishing line.
What are some common wildlife rescue situations encountered by the Woodhaven Wildlife Center?
Interview with Judy Cusworth, Founder of the Woodhaven Wildlife Center
News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us, Judy. Can you tell us a bit about the incident involving the goose that was rescued along the Rayhill Trail?
Judy Cusworth: Of course. The incident occurred Tuesday evening when we received a call about a goose in distress. It was tangled in fishing line, which was wrapped tightly around its neck, preventing it from flying. This type of situation is quite common, unfortunately.
News Directory 3: What steps did your team take to rescue the goose?
Judy Cusworth: We deployed a rescue team equipped with a kayak to reach the bird safely. Once we arrived, we carefully cut the fishing line to free the goose and then helped it to the shore. After ensuring it was stable, we managed to capture the bird and remove any remaining line from its neck.
News Directory 3: You mentioned that similar incidents occur frequently. How often do you see wildlife affected by fishing line?
Judy Cusworth: Sadly, incidents like this happen all too often. Just this year alone, we’ve sent two other geese to Cornell Wildlife Hospital due to injuries from fishing line. It’s a significant concern because it poses serious threats to local wildlife.
News Directory 3: What will happen to the injured goose now that it has been rescued?
Judy Cusworth: The goose will stay overnight at the Woodhaven Wildlife Center to monitor its condition. Following that, it will be transported to Cornell Wildlife Hospital for further treatment and recovery. Our priority is to ensure its full recovery so it can return to the wild safely.
News Directory 3: Is there any message you would like to convey to the public regarding fishing line and wildlife?
Judy Cusworth: Yes, absolutely. I urge everyone to properly dispose of fishing line and any other waste materials. Wildlife can easily become entangled, leading to severe injuries or even death. Being responsible in our outdoor activities helps protect our natural habitats and the animals that live in them. Thank you for raising awareness about this important issue.
News Directory 3: Thank you for your time, Judy, and for the important work you do at the Woodhaven Wildlife Center.
Judy Cusworth: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial that we continue the conversation about wildlife conservation.
The injured goose will spend the night at the Woodhaven Wildlife Center. It will then be taken to Cornell Wildlife Hospital for further treatment.