We thought this year would be different with no worries about Bird Flu.

Then someone arrived with an injured gull. It was an adult bird, silvery grey back, pink legs and very smart looking.

Herring gulls are common on our coasts and inland towns. Tall buildings make good nest sites, especially flat roofs with chimney stacks. The birds can wedge their nests between the pots.

This gull was found on the road. So it must have been flying. Surely that was a good sign. It had a droopy wing that looked like it would heal with a week or two rest in isolation. Hopefully it would be good to go then.

We made up a cage in our’ isolation’ unit. Layer of papers in the cage, a towel where the bird could sleep, and a scrummy looking bowl of fish for the night.

There was little change for a few days, then the bird became more lively. He used to move over while we changed the papers, but now he was trying to get out of the door. It was time for him to move outdoors.

The gull has been in an aviary for a week now. His wing looks good, no sign of a droop, and he eats everything that we give him.

He has been enjoying a bath in the paddling pool and preens after each bath.

Later today is his big day. Hopefully he will join the gulls at the pond. Always plenty of food there.