In a heartwarming incident, reported on BirdLife’s social media, a young Yellow-legged Gull, identified as M043, made an incredible journey from its birthplace on the island of Filfla in Malta to Belgrade, Serbia, covering over 1,000 km.

Unfortunately, the gull was discovered in distress on a building roof near the Danube River in Belgrade by a concerned citizen who promptly reported the finding.

The bird's remarkable journey was made possible through bird ringing, specifically as part of Malta's Ringing Scheme and a colour program for Yellow-legged Gulls. The BirdLife Malta staff had ringed the gull earlier this year on Filfla. The data collected from this incident provides valuable insights into Malta's Yellow-legged Gull populations and their behaviour.

After the gull's distress was reported on social media, a member from BirdLife Serbia reached out and ensured the bird received assistance. It was secured, offered water, and then handed over to Serbian authorities and veterinarians at Belgrade Zoo for further care.