Sir,
The next eight weeks are vital, so please read on . . .
The Oiled Bird Rescue Centre at West Williamston asks everyone to be alert and to please keep a look-out for any of this year's young Manx Shearwaters that are now migrating from Skomer Island. These nocturnal black and white birds with pink webbed feet and a small thin hooked beak are about the size of a pigeon.
Some become 'grounded', due to adverse weather/wind conditions and are unable to 'take off' from the ground. Please do not attempt to put them on the sea, as they need to be released at dusk by trained people, to ensure they have the best possible chance for a long and safe journey.
The birds tend to hide away from predators, so look under cars, in gardens, basement areas, along grass verges and other hidden areas.
Should you be lucky enough to find one, please put it in a cardboard box with air holes and if possible bring in to the Centre at Lower House Farm, West Williamston, which is run by Jean Hains and her voluntary helpers (tel. 01646 651236). If you are unable to deliver the bird, please phone so that we can arrange to collect. It is important that each bird is checked for injury and weighed before being rested and later released, in late evening from a headland.
Your help can mean the difference between life and death and will give these young birds a second chance to have a successful life - birds live for 20-30 years and sometimes longer!
The Centre has been operating on a voluntary daily basis since 1979 and looks forward to meeting anyone able to deliver birds.
Help to make this a 'special year for Shearwaters'!
Jean Hains,
Oiled Bird Rescue Centre,
West Williamston,
Pembs.