Osprey Found Dangling In Tree Impaled By Fishing Line

An Osprey was found stuck in a tree and dangling from a fishing line last week at Caumsett State Park.

New York State Park officials say a a visitor saw the female hawk, which was suspended 20 feet off the ground and pierced with a fish hook, and phoned for help during the last week of April.

A park police officer arrived and with help from park police staff, DEC and Volunteers for Wildlife, implemented a rescue plan. They cut the branch and the dangling Osprey was carefully lowered into a net.

As of Thursday, the hawk is fighting an infection from the fishing lure that impaled her foot and wing. She is in the care of Volunteers for Wildlife.

New York State Parks says anglers can do their part to be more careful and respectful of wildlife. "For human anglers, please remember that fishing line and hooks left behind pose a serious risk to wildlife-- be responsible and dispose of all lines and hooks properly in covered containers," NY State Parks & Historic Sites wrote on Facebook.

Image via NY State Parks & Historic Sites on Facebook