Heron Freed from Plastic Pollution Takes Flight
In a powerful reminder of the impact of plastic waste on wildlife, a Cocoi heron in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, has been given a second chance at life after veterinarians removed a plastic cup lodged in its throat. The bird, the largest heron species in Latin America, had been unable to eat and was on the brink of starvation.
The heron’s ordeal began when veterinary biologist Jeferson Pires spotted the bird struggling with the obstruction and shared its plight on social media. The cup, a discarded fruit drink container, had become stuck around the heron’s neck, leaving visible lesions from its failed attempts to eat. The heartbreaking sight of the bird vomiting a fish it couldn’t swallow underscored the severity of the situation.
After being captured and undergoing surgery to remove the plastic, the heron was released back into the wild in Rio’s Recreio dos Bandeirantes neighborhood. Initially hesitant, the bird soon stretched its white-gray wings and soared over a nearby river, a hopeful symbol of resilience and recovery.
The heron’s story has sparked widespread outrage in Brazil, drawing attention to the devastating impact of single-use plastics on wildlife. Environmentalist Isabelle de Loys emphasised how common such incidents are, highlighting the urgent need to address plastic pollution. “What we saw today with this heron, over these two weeks, is how much these animals are impacted by plastic.” she said.
The Cocoi heron’s survival serves as a stark reminder of the harm caused by discarded plastics and the urgent need to reduce plastic production globally. As it takes flight once more, the heron symbolises hope and the importance of protecting the natural world from human negligence.
Take 3 for the Sea encourages everyone to remember that a single act, like picking up three pieces of litter or finding three ways to reduce your plastic footprint, can save the lives of beautiful animals like this majestic Cocoi heron.
Image credit: REUTERS/Ricardo Moraes
