After Heron's Death, Brookhaven Amends Fishing Line Ordinances

BROOKHAVEN, GA -- In the wake of a great blue heron's death after its beak became entangled with fishing line and other debris, the Brookhaven city council amended its parks and greenspace regulations this week. The bird, nicknamed Murph, died at a DeKalb County animal rescue facility after it was captured at Murphey-Candler Park by a wildlife photographer. Stephen Ramsden saw the bird back in late March, and that its beak had become encircled with the debris, rendering the heron unable to open its mouth.

On Tuesday, the Brookhaven city council amended its fishing ordinance to require the use of "monofilament line of not more than 10 pounds breaking strength, and a single unbarbed hook, using only natural baits. No lures, jigs or other artificial devices may be utilized.

"This provision will ensure that shorebirds do not mistake lures for fish, and in using single unbarbed hooks, there is less likelihood of injuring wildlife and getting hooked on the bottom forcing the line to be cut. As one of our prior heron losses began as a foot amputation from fishing line, we think this is an important step forward."

Also, Drew Valley resident Lissie Stahlman said the city's parks and recreation director, Brian Borden, said he he is ordering signage for each fishing spot at Murphey Candler lake.

Read more: Blue Heron With Entangled Beak Rescued At Murphey Candler Park

Murph died within 24 hours of being taken to AWARE Wildlife Center in Lithonia. Ramsden said he and some birding friends captured the bird several days after he saw it, waiting until the bird became weak enough to allow a rescue attempt.