TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) \u2014 A seagull found abandoned at the Benson Animal Hospital has made a full recovery and is now in California after becoming the first of its kind ever treated at the Tucson Wildlife Center.<\/p>\n
The bird was brought to the local center with damaged feathers, foot lesions and was severely underweight after it landed in Benson, according to TWC. Staff members believe the injuries suggested the seagull had been kept in a crate or similar small space for a long time.<\/p>\n
Veterinarians at the center created a treatment plan that included antibiotics and specially designed neoprene booties to help the bird’s feet heal. One of the veterinarians crafted the protective footwear by hand using material from an old wetsuit, TWC said.<\/p>\n
After weeks of treatment, the seagull regained its health.<\/p>\n
“While seagulls are most commonly associated with coastlines, several species are seasonal visitors to Southern Arizona,” TWC said. “During migration and the winter months, they can often be found around our lakes, reservoirs, and even landfills, where they are highly adaptable foragers.”<\/p>\n
The seagull was moved to SeaWorld San Diego’s rehabilitation center where it was released back into the wild, according to staff.\u00a0<\/p>\n