Animal charity warns of litter danger after heron dies from beak trapped shut by netting

'Harry the heron' died after getting discarded netting caught around his beak. Credit: Richard Scantlebury

A Somerset animal charity is urging people to clear up after themselves in parks after a heron has died because it's beak was trapped shut by netting.

Secret World Wildlife Rescue attempted to save the bird, but it was too late, 'Harry the heron' passed away a day after being taken in by the charity.

The heron was first spotted on 25 April in Eastville Park, Bristol. The local community became concerned for the bird's welfare and a few days later, two local residents caught him.

Credit: Richard Scantlebury

Secret World has issued a list of simple tips of what people can do with household waste to prevent wildlife injuries:

  • Cut up plastic ring pulls that hold cans together

  • Pick up bits of string and twine

  • Pinch cans and containers closed

  • Tie a knot in the top of plastic bags

  • Clean and recycle glass jars and bottles

  • Take any unwanted fishing line home and cut it up into small pieces