Opossum rescued after becoming caught on fishing hook
LINCOLNTON, NC (WWAY) — An opossum was rescued Wednesday after becoming caught on fishing line and left hanging from a tree more than 10 feet above the water along South Fork Trail in Lincolnton.
The Carolina Wildlife Conservation Center received a call at 11:33 a.m. from a trail visitor who spotted the trapped animal and sent the center a photo. The visitor could not safely reach the opossum and contacted the wildlife rescue organization for help.
The rescue team arrived around 12:30 p.m. and determined the animal was beyond the reach of their rescue pole. Rachel, the center’s lead wildlife rehabilitator and hospital manager, climbed the tree and safely brought the opossum down.
The animal was taken to the center’s wildlife hospital, where an examination and X-rays found a fishing hook embedded in the soft tissue beneath its tongue, with fishing line still attached.
The opossum was also dehydrated and emaciated, indicating it may have been trapped for more than 24 hours.
Wildlife officials say discarded fishing line, hooks and other tackle can pose serious hazards to animals. Entangled wildlife can suffer injuries, become unable to feed or move freely, and may be unable to escape without assistance.
The person who found the opossum was able to recognize the danger and contact wildlife professionals, helping lead to the animal’s rescue.
Anyone who needs help with wildlife can contact the Carolina Wildlife Conservation Center at 980-389-1133. The hotline is available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Callers are asked to leave a voicemail or send a text describing the animal in need.
