The next time you chew bubble gum, think carefully about where you dispose it.

A Magpie Lark that couldn’t fly was picked up by a member of the public last week.

When local Wildlife Information and Rescue Emergency Service (WIRES) volunteers were called to the scene, they discovered the bird had a sticky substance through its wing. 

It had caused the wing to become stuck to its tail and it couldn't fly.

The local, Sophie, had already contained the helpless bird, and put it in a box with a soft cloth at the bottom.

She was keeping it warm, dark and quiet to reduce its stress before WIRES arrived to give assistance.

When WIRES volunteer arrived, she discovered that the sticky substance was bubble gum.

Julie said this bird was “one lucky Magpie Lark”.

“It was good that Sophie discovered the bird was in trouble before any major injuries occurred,” Julie said.

It was also lucky because Julie is trained in how to remove sticky substances such as chewing gum from our feathered friends.

According to Julie, there was minimal feather damage after the gum was removed.

The Magpie Lark, just before it was released.

“The Magpie Lark was given hydration and seemed quite feisty,” she said.

“It was given a flight test and passed with flying colours. 

“This male Magpie Lark was ready to resume life in the wild and was promptly released back home."

Julie said chewing gum can be lethal if thoughtlessly disposed of.

“It may not kill the bird if it is ingested, but it can certainly cause issues, and as in this case would have eventually killed the bird as it was unable to fly leaving it helpless and easy prey,” she said.

“Please dispose all rubbish including chewing gum responsibly, in a bin with a closed lid.

If you find an injured animal, call WIRES 66281898. WIRES is a voluntary service looking after native wildlife an is ways looking for volunteers and donations.