Two ducks entangled in fishing line have been released following a joint rescue operation by the RSPCA and fire service at the Cleddau River.

RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer and Wildlife Officer Ellie West was called to attend to the two male mallards on Saturday, September 28 as they had become entangled in line on the river near Quay Street, Haverfordwest.

Although the water was low at this point, it would have not been safe for Ellie to attempt a solo rescue, so she subsequently reached out to Mid and West Wales Fire and Service and crew members from Haverfordwest Fire Station arrived promptly.

She said: “The crew were able to walk out to the ducks in their dry suits and use my nets to contain the mallards and then walk them back to dry land and meet me.

Unfortunately the two ducks were badly entangled with fishing line around their legs so Ellie sought the assistance of her colleague RSPCA Inspector Keith Hogben.

As rehabilitation would not have been possible and to prevent suffering, one duck was put to sleep due to injuries. Thankfully the other duck was much stronger and only had the line wrapped around his leg lightly which hadn’t caused any injury.

“He was alert and active with no wounds so he was returned to the river straight away for release where he flew off happily,” said Ellie.

“A sad outcome for one duck but a lucky outcome for the other.”

Around 40% of all litter-related calls to the RSPCA across England and Wales in 2023 were about animals that had specifically become caught in fishing litter.

The RSPCA says a majority of anglers are careful when fishing - but a small number are letting the community down by not disposing of their waste properly and leaving animals in danger.

Ellie added: “It’s simple - when people are out and about, we urge them to hold on to their litter until there is an opportunity to dispose of it safely and responsibly - or recycle where appropriate.

“As we all strive to create a better world for every animal, this could save an animal’s life.“