WILD birds are being discovered covered in an unidentified sticky substance along the south coast of the Isle of Wight.

Guillemots and razorbills are among those affected, along the shore from Bembridge to Ventnor.

Several have been rescued by wild bird rescuer Kay Ounsworth of IW Wild Bird Rehabilitation, and West Wight Pet Lifeline.

Kay said: "Please keep a watchful eye. Bembridge through to Ventnor, guillemots and razorbills are being found covered in an as yet unidentified sticky substance.

"We have had two guillemots in two days, both smothered in a thick sticky substance, similar to 'glue trap adhesive'.

"Sadly the bird called in yesterday was already deceased, but today we have had a live bird admitted, which we have named Gilly.

"Both birds were found on Shanklin beach.

"West Wight Pet Lifeline is going to try to investigate and will be taking over care of the Guillemot I have here, once he's been cleaned.

"Please stay alert. We have no idea where this sticky stuff is.

"Although presumed a little way out at sea, any animal could be at risk if coming into contact.

"Please report anything suspicious on the beach or floating in the water."

More casualties have since been taken in this afternoon.

Additionally, one razorbill headed back out to sea but couldn't stay afloat, and one guillemot was seen being attacked by gulls.

Kay said: "If you see a bird in trouble, call 07765 564479.

"Secure it if possible, and if you can arrange transportation, even better."

The birds have sharp bills, so the advice is to take care of yourself, and keep the birds away from your face.

UPDATE 8.35pm: Plan of action

Kay said: "Edward (West Wight Pet Lifeline) and I have spoken extensively.

"It is possible this substance is a palm oil type derivative. However it is not oily but very sticky.

"Any grounded bird is at high risk of hypothermia, starvation and/or predation and we ask the public to not try to take care of these birds themselves.

"Their rehab will be extensive and formulatory care is needed over many days to remove the substance. Once done they are specialised feeders and cannot be rehabed in a bathtub or sink or bog standard aviary.

"We are both asking politely that if a bird is secured by a member of public, and if they are able to transport, they call me and bring the bird to Cowes (we may be able to arrange volunteer help) on O7765 564479.

"If a bird has been spotted but cannot be secured then call Edward on  717740.

"All birds will end up in the care of Edward eventually but interim care by myself will even out the initial workload, giving each bird more chance.

"We are going to inform nearby businesses who we are hoping may be willing to take hold of a secured bird temporarily until someone is available to collect if the member of the public cannot stay.

"Edward is hoping to arrange an aerial sweep of the area to find any suspicious locations out at sea."

UPDATE SUNDAY 9.45am:

Stricken birds have now been picked up in Selsey and East Whittering.

Already this mornig there has been three guillemots taken from Wheelers Bay, Bonchurch, one of which is dead.

There have also been a guillemot found at Shanklin, a gannet at Yaverland and a further guillemot at Culver.

Any birds found by the public, even if taken into care, should be reported to the National Maritime Coastguard on 02392 552100. This saves the busy bird rescuers having to do it.

They are asking that dead birds are also reported. This means the rescuers can remove them off the beach, but also gives them a chance to study the substance and find ways of removing it, which will eventually help those still alive.

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