Over the past month, Pacific Wildlife Care (PWC) says it has received several seagulls that were injured after apparently being shot with metal darts. The birds were reportedly found in the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area.
PWC veterinarians say so far, none of the birds has suffered life-threatening injuries and they’ve responded well to treatment. At least one bird has fully recovered and was released.
Pacific Wildlife Care says the darts removed from the birds are about 4.5 inches in length and have a round, colored plastic top. PWC believes they may be blowgun darts intended for target practice.
California Gulls are protected by state and federal law.
Anyone with information about the person or persons responsible for injuring the birds is urged to contact the California Department of Fish and Wildlife at 1-888-334-CalTIP.
If you find an injured bird, contact Pacific Wildlife Care at 805-543-WILD.
