BT exchange gets the bird
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CONCERNS have been raised by an animal charity after a number of birds became strangled in roof netting in Wick.
An angry reader has claimed that the birds included seagulls, crows, blackbirds and pigeons, all of which found themselves trapped on top of the BT exchange in Union Street.
The netting is said to be on the building for “safety” reasons – but, as the picture the reader provided shows, it doesn’t appear to do much for the welfare of those trapped in it.
The reader, who did not wish to be named, has said that both BT and animal protection charity the SSPCA have been contacted to see what can be done – “but to no avail” – and is appealing to them to do something before more bird injuries and deaths occur.
“I’ve tried calling them but nothing seems to be done,” the reader said.
“Over the year I’ve seen around eight birds – seagulls, pigeons, blackbirds and crows – trapped on the roof netting of the BT building on Union Street. I’ve actually taken it upon myself to get a ladder and try to rescue four of them. Only one managed to survive.”
The reader said that the three birds that died had become so tangled they’d been strangled.
“The gull that was alive when I went up had broken its wing. I took it back home and nursed it back to health. It was around two weeks before it was fit and able enough to fly again.”
When contacted for a response, a BT spokesman said temporary repairs had been made to the netting and specialist wildlife contractors were making further changes to prevent a repeat.
“We’re sorry for any distress. We’d ask any members of the public with concerns about our buildings to report these by calling 0800 223388.”
Meanwhile, the SSPCA has stated it is aware of the issue and has been in dialogue with BT on how to make the building safer for local birdlife.
Anyone with concerns about a bird or animal should contact 03000 999 999.
