SOME 220 Manx Shearwaters were rescued in Pembrokeshire recently by RSPCA Cymru following stormy weather conditions - and the public are being urged to be on the look-out for more.

This follows a rescue operation at Newgale beach on September 11, where some 144 of the seabirds were saved following a mass landing.

Sadly, some 10 per cent of those birds collected by the RSPCA at Newgale had to be put to sleep on welfare grounds. 100 or so were also found dead, following their ordeal in stormy conditions.

Manx shearwaters' body shape does lead them to have difficulties on land - and many face problems after being blown off course in adverse weather conditions.

Rescue efforts continued - with a further 50 seabirds rescued from Druidstone beach, in addition to many more on Tenby’s beaches, and some found in jeopardy inland.

Western Telegraph:

The 220 Manx shearwaters were taken into RSPCA care, the majority going to specialist rehabilitation at the RSPCA’s West Hatch Wildlife Centre in Somerset before release to the wild.

Western Telegraph:

Sadly, the condition on some of the seabirds meant they had to be put to sleep on welfare grounds.

RSPCA inspector Keith Hogben said: “This was a major rescue operation, with many RSPCA officers working in challenging conditions to rescue so many troubled Manx shearwaters.

“Some 220 of the birds were rescued in total in West Wales - with over 140 found at Newgale, and many others rescued from Druidstone beach, and beaches in Tenby.

“Thankfully, the rescue has proven a success - with the birds, after rehabilitation, starting to be returned to the wild - ahead of migration to South America.

Western Telegraph:

"All birds released will have rings attached, so vital information can be gained on a bird should they be found again in the future.

“Sadly, some of the Manx shearwater transferred to our specialist facilities didn’t make it. However, a big majority of them are expected to be released, safe and well, which just highlights the vital nature of the RSPCA’s work here, along with the many volunteers and others agencies who kindly supported our efforts.”

RSPCA Cymru is reminding members of the public how they can help these birds, and what to do if they see one in need of help.

Inspector Hogben added: “If anyone sees one of these unique seabirds in distress, they should contact our 24-hour Emergency Line on 0300 1234 999. Manx shearwaters possess a distinctive sharp beak, which the public should be wary of."