Rescue Mission: Masked Booby Finds Safe Haven in Thane

A rare masked booby, commonly known as the masked gannet or blue-faced booby, was rescued in Thane East from a warehouse, according to officials of the Wildlife Welfare Association (WWA).

Found in a weakened condition, the seabird, normal to tropical areas, was taken into custody on Sunday afternoon when local residents reported its presence to authorities at Kanaya Nagar. After a thorough examination by avian specialist Dr. Hemant Thange, the bird was diagnosed with respiratory issues and mild malnutrition.

Currently under the care of the WWA at their Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in Manpada, the booby has shown positive signs of recovery. Once its health is stabilized, plans are ready to release it back into its natural ocean habitat. Rare sightings like these in urban regions signal distress or disorientation in these expert diving birds.

(With inputs from agencies.)