Stranded gannet found miles from the sea rescued by Secret World Wildlife Rescue

The young bird was found on its own on a driveway in Shapwick, Dorset, by a member of the public.

The man was concerned for the animal's wellbeing and called Secret World Wildlife Rescue for advice.

When the bird arrived at the wildlife centre in East Huntspill it was found to be uninjured but thin, which was to be expected as it had been found several miles from the coast.

Gannets are seabirds and the sea provides their primary source of nutrition and food which made this rescue even more critical to the animal's survival.

Carers fed the bird through a tube to build up its strength and placed it in a secure pen to get some rest.

Katie Gibbs, animal Carer at Secret World, said: “It’s very unusual that he was found inland in Shapwick, over ten miles away from the coast. Luckily for this bird, he was found in the nick of time and wasn’t suffering any injuries.

“When he is fit and healthy again, he’ll be released back by the sea.”

After a period of rest under the supervision of Secret World’s care team, the gannet was transferred to RSPCA West Hatch, which has other birds on site that the bird can socialise with in the pre-release facilities.

Last year, Secret World rescued 212 water birds, which includes gannets.

The centre is open from 8am until 8pm to animal casualties and provides advice over the phone to people who find an injured wild animal.

To contact Secret World in the event of an emergency, call 01278 783250.