Entangled Pacific Reef Egret feeding on sea slater

Ron Yeo of The Tide Chaser fame reported seeing a Pacific Reef Egret (Egretta sacra) around Singapore’s Changi Point with its legs entangled by a piece of fishing line (above left and centre). It was sitting quietly on a rock below the boardwalk.

Later, the heron moved away to feed on a few sea slaters (Ligia sp.) (above right). An earlier post showcase a Little Heron feeding on the sea slater.

Ron wondered how long the Pacific Reef Egret could survive with its legs entangled. Although it could feed itself, would it be able to avoid predators? Anglers should show some responsibility when discarding their used fishing lines so as not to cause problems to marine creatures.

Ron Yeo
Singapore
April 2011