Storks die after ingesting medical waste in Gela wetland

At least twelve young storks have died in the Geloi Wetland, a natural area near Gela in the province of Caltanissetta, after ingesting plastic waste and medical supplies.

Ornithologist Angelo Scuderi reported that the birds, particularly juveniles, are mistaking items such as plastic fragments and hemostatic ligatures for earthworms. Once ingested, these materials cause fatal intestinal obstructions.

Scuderi noted that while cleanup efforts have been conducted within the protected area through the support of a private foundation, the birds often travel long distances to forage. This leads them into contact with illegal landfills located in isolated rural areas surrounding the wetland. The presence of medical waste, such as hemostatic ligatures, is a particular concern as these materials require specific disposal procedures.