Fishing enthusiasts are being warned to clear away their equipment after a swan was found with a fishing line around its beak.

The Scottish SPCA discovered the bird at Lanark Loch with the line around its legs and another with the line wrapped around its beak.

The charity are now urging the public to be more careful with their fishing hooks and line when disposing of them.

Glasgow Times: Swan

Animal Rescue Officer Sian Robertson said: “I was called out to a swan with fishing line around its legs, however when I arrived at the loch I noticed a swan out of the water and was alarmed when it let me get close and lift it.

“Upon closer inspection I noticed an unusual smell and saw that the swan actually had a piece of fishing line wrapped tightly around its beak.

“I wouldn’t have been able to spot the wire from a distance which highlights how important it is for all fishing equipment to be cleared away. The swan was already very lethargic and dehydrated, it was likely he hadn’t been able to eat or drink for a few days.

“The swan was taken straight over to our national wildlife rescue centre where the line was cut and pain relief was provided.

"Thankfully he made a full recovery and was released back into the wild on Friday December 1 with three other cygnets!”

“We urge the public to be more careful with their fishing hooks and line when disposing of them as we deal with so many incidents which are very similar on a weekly basis. The hooks can get stuck to their limbs, face and mouth and if swallowed, it can cause internal damage. This could so easily be avoided by clearing away every piece of equipment.”

Anyone concerned about the welfare of an animal should contact the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.