A seagull rescued by the SSPCA in Alloa has been spotted 1,800 miles away on a beach in Agadir, Morocco.
A passer-by found Gulliver trapped and contacted the Scottish SPCA. An officer then freed him from the bin. They then took him to Fishcross, to the National Wildlife Rescue Centre. Gulliver arrived in a bad way.
He weighed only 645 grams, 20% less than his proper weight. Staff gave him round-the-clock care. They washed his feathers many times and this helped to restore them. He also got a good diet to improve his health.
After two weeks, he was well enough to be released back into the wild. Staff put rings on him to track him. A birdwatcher saw Gulliver relaxing on Agadir Beach in Morocco. Staff were very happy to hear.
Liam Reid, a vet at the center, was excited about Gulliver’s wellbeing, almost 200 days after his release. They ring birds when they can, before releasing them, to help monitor them later. The rings provide useful data.
The Scottish SPCA rescues more animals faster now. They use improved methods and rehabilitate animals quicker. The charity released 2,562 animals in 2024, successfully returning these animals to their homes.
Gulliver’s story shows their hard work pays off. Rehabilitation and release really make a difference for these animals. He said the animals survive and thrive. Gulliver migrated normally, which is uplifting and wonderful.