Below is a copy of a great post from Your Shore Network, a collation of local marine groups across the county, working with volunteers to encourage marine nature recovery and help protect Cornwall’s unique coasts and seas.
As you will have seen we are currently closed for urgent and essential building works but are still available to give advice over the phone, via email or social media.
Have you found a dead or injured puffin?
We have had a higher than usual number of puffins being washed in around the coast recently, possibly as a result of the stormy weather we’ve been experiencing.
If you find a puffin, please follow the guidance below:
If the bird is dead:
Call the Cornwall Wildlife Trust Marine Strandings Hotline on 0345 201 2626. We will ensure the information is passed to Defra.
If the bird is alive:
Live puffins found so far have been clear of bird flu, however there remains a risk. Please only intervene if you are properly prepared (gloves, mask and eye protection advised). Take care around the beak, which can still cause injury.
Live birds that have been found have typically been exhausted and starving. They can recover, but require specialist care.
Please contact:
. A local veterinary practice, or
. RSPCA West Hatch Wildlife – 0300 123 0721
Important handling guidance:
• Do not return the bird to the sea
• Do not attempt to feed or give water
• Cover the head with a towel and gently wrap the wings
• Place in a ventilated cardboard box lined with a towel
• Keep the bird warm, dark and quiet (a car footwell provides gentle warmth — do not use a heat lamp)
• Transport to specialist care as soon as possible
Thank you for helping us save some seabirds and protect Cornwall’s marine wildlife. Please share to help raise awareness.