A heron was seen tangled in fishing wire in Bisham over the weekend.

The long-legged freshwater bird, which is known for eating fish, was seen by resident Steven Bines on Sunday, May 17, at around 12.30pm.

The creature was seen struggle to escape from the wire opposite Bisham Church.

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Mr Bines took a photo of the incident and shared it in the Facebook group Marlow Life.

He said: “Heron seen tangled in fishing wire.

“On hold to RSPCA but posting here in case anyone knows anyone local who can help?

“It's by one of the little bridges opposite Bisham Church."

He then confirmed roughly 10 minutes later that the bird had managed to untangle itself before flying away.

Steven said: “Hope it hasn't done too much damage to its wing and might have taken the wire with it.

“Not sure what more to do but thank you all for suggestions.”

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Following the post, Steve Shenfield, who is a bailiff for the Marlow Angling Club, revealed that there is a ‘problem’ when it comes to illegal fishing.

Many birds across the whole country have been spotted getting tangled in fishing wire, but Mr Shenfield believes this is not this down to fishermen, but 'poachers' who are using 'illegal practises' to catch fish.

He said: "It is currently the close season for fishing on rivers (March 15 to June 15 inclusive).

“Prior to that, the river was in flood for most of the winter and fishing in this part of the river was almost impossible.

“Unfortunately, there is a very real problem with poachers lying deadlines (like traps) to catch fish for the table.

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“This practice is illegal and can often result in birds or fish becoming entangled or snared.

“I am a bailiff for Marlow Angling Club and in normal circumstances walk that stretch of the river regularly.

“I have recovered deadlines on a couple of occasions from other areas of the Thames.

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“With the recent restrictions imposed by the lockdown, I have not been able to do so, that could mean poachers have had more chance to lay traps.

“Most anglers respect the countryside and wouldn't dream of leaving discarded line, but as in life, there is always a small minority that gives any pastime a bad name.

“Hopefully with the recent relaxation of rules regarding the lockdown, I would hope to once more walk that beautiful stretch of the river.”

If you see an animal in distress, call the South Bucks branch of the RSPCA on 01494 564026.