The Scottish SPCA has warned members of the public of the danger discarded litter can cause to wildlife.

Scotland’s animal welfare charity issued the warning after a gull was found with plastic wrapped so tightly around its feet that it caused it to blister.

A member of the public discovered the distressed bird in Glasgow last month.

Scotland’s animal welfare charity was alerted to the animal on July 13 after a member of public discovered him with the plastic string around his feet.

Dawn Robertson, Scottish SPCA animal rescue officer, said: “The plastic was wrapped very tightly around the poor guy’s foot which had caused it to swell and blister.

“I was able to cut it off before he was taken to our National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Fishcross to receive further treatment.”

And the creature was said to be lucky someone reported it or things could have been much worse.

Dawn added: “It was lucky someone spotted him and alerted us when they did as it’s not always such a happy ending.

“The gull is doing well so far and we’re hopeful we’ll be able to release him back into the wild.

“The vast majority of the public are very responsible and take care to clear away their rubbish after they’ve used it.

“However, we want to remind the public that being so careless can kill wildlife.”

Anyone concerned about the welfare of an animal should contact the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.