07/06/2026
💙 A Rescue to Remember – Meet Bert the Fulmar 💙
Last night was one of those rescues that reminds us what can be achieved when members of the public, emergency services, and dedicated volunteers work together for wildlife.
We received a call from a concerned gentleman who had spotted a Fulmar suspended from the middle of a 50ft cliff by multiple strands of discarded fishing line.
Our wonderful volunteer Sarah headed out and spent the evening patiently assessing the situation and problem-solving until help arrived. It wasn’t the easiest beach to access, but on a beautiful evening and after quite the workout, the rescue effort was underway.
A huge thank you to County Durham & Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, who attended with three firefighters and their specialist rope rescue equipment. In a brilliant display of teamwork, they carefully freed the Fulmar from the cliff face and then used a good old-fashioned tarp to safely catch them once they were released. Firefighter Ben then patiently removed the tightly wound fishing line from around their legs and wing.
The firefighters named the bird Bert, and Bert was brought safely to Pawz for Thought for assessment and care.
🩶 Did you know? Fulmars are remarkable seabirds:
• They can spend months at sea without touching land.
• Their stiff-winged flight allows them to glide effortlessly for long distances over the ocean.
• They are an Amber-listed conservation species in the UK, meaning they are considered a species of conservation concern.
• Fulmars form incredibly strong pair bonds and often return to the same nesting site year after year with the same partner. In fact, they are known to mate for life.
This makes Bert’s rescue even more important, as the cliff where they were found is an active nesting site. If Bert recovers well, our hope is to return them home as soon as possible so they can reunite with their partner and continue the breeding season.
This rescue also highlights the devastating impact discarded fishing line can have on wildlife. Please always dispose of fishing tackle responsibly and, if safe to do so, remove any litter you find along our coastlines.
A huge thank you to the gentleman who raised the alarm, to Sarah for her determination and persistence, and to the incredible team from County Durham & Darlington Fire and Rescue Service whose skill, compassion and teamwork made this rescue possible.
We’re rooting for you, Bert. 💙🐦