From fishing line to plastic netting, everyday materials we use and discard can become life-threatening traps for wild animals. Entanglement is a growing issue that affects birds, mammals, reptiles, and even amphibians. These situations can be difficult and heartbreaking, but with knowledge and compassion, you can make a difference.

What Is Wildlife Entanglement?

Entanglement happens when an animal becomes trapped or restricted by human-made materials such as:

Fishing line or netting
String, twine, or kite string
Garden mesh or landscape fabric
Plastic six-pack rings or bags
Barbed wire or plastic fencing
Holiday decorations (lights, tinsel, ribbon)

These materials can wrap around limbs, wings, beaks, or necks, causing injuries, restricted movement, starvation, or even death. Sometimes, the animal survives for days or weeks while slowly weakening, making them more vulnerable to predators and unable to feed or move normally.

Identifying Signs

Wild animals are excellent at hiding distress, but here are some signs of entanglement:

An animal tethered in place, unable to fly or walk away
Unusual materials visibly wrapped around body parts
Difficulty moving, flying, or climbing
Swelling, bleeding, or visible injury near limbs or wings
Birds dangling from trees, wires, or fences

Some animals may flee before you can help them, but keep in mind, entangled animals may only become catchable once they are severely weakened. If you notice one but can’t catch it yet, monitor the situation and be ready to act when the time comes. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator to track and assist.

How to Help an Entangled Animal

Ensure your safety first. Do not attempt to free dangerous or large animals such as raccoons, deer, or birds of prey unless you are trained and equipped. Call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or animal control in these cases.
Approach slowly and calmly. Use a towel, blanket, or box to gently restrain the animal. Wear gloves to protect yourself and reduce stress on the animal.
Cut carefully. Use blunt-tipped scissors or safety shears to cut away string, line, or mesh. Avoid pulling or tightening the material further. If it’s deeply embedded or you’re unsure, do not remove it. Bring the animal to a rehabilitator.
If fishing line or string has been swallowed, do not attempt to pull it out. Instead, leave a length of line attached as this can help a rehabilitator safely locate and remove the foreign body through medical care.
Minimize handling. Once free, place the animal in a ventilated box in a quiet, warm area and contact a professional for further guidance. Even if the entanglement appears minor, internal injuries or circulation problems may occur.
Never release an entangled animal unless you're certain it’s uninjured. Always consult a wildlife rehabilitator if you’re unsure.

How to Prevent Entanglement

Tidy up outdoor spaces:

Remove loose string, twine, and netting from gardens or construction areas.
Use wildlife-safe fencing and avoid plastic mesh.
Take down holiday lights and decorations promptly, especially near trees or shrubs.

Dispose of materials responsibly:

Collect and cut up old fishing line, string, or six-pack rings before disposal.
Recycle plastic bags, wrappers, and packaging whenever possible.
Host or participate in community cleanups near waterways and parks.

Choose wildlife-friendly products:

Avoid garden netting or use fine mesh secured tightly so animals can’t become trapped.
Consider using row covers or fences instead of loose netting in gardens.
Opt for biodegradable twine in outdoor projects.

When to Call for Help

Call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator if:

The entanglement involves deep wounds, swelling, or embedded material
The animal is too large or distressed to handle
You’re unsure how to safely proceed
The animal is still mobile but clearly entangled

Resources:

Animal Help Now

Every Action Counts

While it’s heartbreaking to witness, entanglement is often preventable. By being aware, cleaning up, and sharing this knowledge with others, you can reduce harm and help wild animals live free from the dangers of our waste.

Whether it’s cutting loose a bird from fishing line or removing plastic netting from your yard, each small act can mean the world to a struggling animal.

Untangled Lives