Patient Spotlight: Karoro (Black-Backed Gull) Eating Stones to Survive

Nyssa Skorji
Mar 24
2 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

This juvenile karoro (black-backed gull) came to us in a really bad way. Weighing just 638g - severely underweight for the species - dehydrated, and with stones in his crop from trying to fill his empty stomach.

The Condition on Arrival

Eating stones is a sign of desperation in birds - they do it when they are starving and have run out of options. This little one had clearly been struggling for a while before someone spotted him and called us in.

Treatment and Recovery

Our first priority was rehydration and slow refeeding. Starved birds cannot be fed normally right away - their digestive systems need time to restart. We worked with our vet partners at Avian Empire on a careful recovery plan, gradually introducing food over several days.

Karoro are a native species and fall under our DOC permit. This one responded really well to treatment and steadily put on weight over the following weeks.

The Importance of Calling Early

Cases like this are a reminder that earlier is always better when it comes to wildlife rescue. The longer a bird goes without help, the harder the recovery. If you see a bird that looks unwell, grounded, or behaving strangely - trust your instincts and call us.

Support Flock Birdcare Wellington - we are a volunteer-run charitable trust and every donation goes directly to patient care. Visit https://www.flockwellington.com/donate to make a one-off or monthly contribution. Every feathered friend we release is thanks to people like you.