Two Canada geese are currently facing a battle for survival after being rescued from the famous La Brea Tar Pits in Los Angeles. The incident occurred in late July when approximately 15 geese, belonging to a local urban flock, mistakenly landed on the sticky asphalt of the Los Angeles Natural History Museum. Seven of the birds were rescued and taken to the Los Angeles Wildlife Center for treatment of injuries caused by the heated tar.
Initially, there were concerns that all of the geese might not survive their ordeal. However, only two of the birds managed to pull through after arriving at the wildlife center. They are currently recovering from exhaustion, burns, and feather loss.
The distressing situation came to light when an animal control officer noticed the trapped flock of geese in the tar pits. Given the large size of Canada geese, they were easily spotted, whereas if it had been a smaller bird species, it might have gone unnoticed. When rescuers arrived at the pits, they found the birds covered in tar and barely recognizable. The birds were in a listless state, unable to stand, and struggling to free themselves from the sticky mess.
Separating the geese from the tar proved to be a challenging task due to their size and the stickiness of the asphalt. The wildlife center staff had to act quickly to prevent the birds from suffocating. They diligently worked on removing the tar from the animals’ orifices, allowing them to breathe, eat, and defecate. However, the birds’ struggles to free themselves caused muscle damage and atrophy, a condition known as capture myopathy. Unfortunately, some of the severely injured geese had to be euthanized.
The La Brea Tar Pits, a geological heritage site, are a popular attraction in Los Angeles, receiving nearly half a million visitors annually. Over the years, the pits have captured numerous small mammals, birds, and insects due to the bubbling tar. Although the tar pits are fenced off, birds still land on the sticky asphalt, putting themselves at risk.
The incident involving the geese has sparked concern about the need to protect wildlife in the vicinity of the tar pits. While safety measures have been implemented for human visitors, more needs to be done to safeguard the wildlife that frequents the area.
The surviving geese are now receiving care at the wildlife center, with one of them being moved to an outdoor enclosure resembling its natural habitat. The other goose underwent surgery and is currently healing. There is hope that once they are fully recovered, both birds will be released back into the wild.
In light of this incident, the International Bird Rescue, a nonprofit organization, is accepting donations to aid in their efforts to rescue and rehabilitate injured birds. Individuals who wish to support their cause can donate online on the organization’s website.
The situation at the La Brea Tar Pits serves as a reminder of the dangers wildlife can face even in urban environments. Efforts must be made to ensure the safety and well-being of animals in such areas, allowing them to thrive alongside human populations.
