Great Black-Backed Gull Loses To Turkey Grease

The following story about a great black-backed gull was shared with us by the Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge in New Jersey.

The Wildlife Hospital at Woodford Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge admitted a large great black-backed gull shortly after Thanksgiving. He got himself into leftover turkey grease!

On intake he was covered in oil and was dehydrated, thin, and hypothermic. Sadly, as a scavenger, he was trying to take advantage of an easy meal, but got himself into trouble instead.

This gull required two rounds of thorough washing and rinsing before his feathers were determined to be turkey-oil free. Additionally, he required supplemental heat, fluids, and great nutrition to bring him back to overall health.

After receiving fluid therapy and stabilization, he was gavage-fed EmerAid IC Piscivore to aid in his recovery until he was stable enough for a solid diet.

After spending some time working on his waterproofing with his newly cleaned feathers, this great black-backed gull was returned to his home!