THE RSPCA has been made aware of a cormorant with an angler’s hook stuck in its mouth.

The unfortunate bird was pictured on Tuesday with the metal implement, attached to a fake fish, stuck in its beak.

Pictured by Oxford Mail Camera Club member Tony Steele next to a canal foot bridge in Canal Street, Jericho, further images of the bird show it appearing to attempt to dislodge the hook.

Mr Steele said: “It was very saddening to see it like that and frustrating that I couldn’t help it. It appeared lethargic.”

An online discussion saw most people blaming ‘irresponsible’ anglers, with one person describing the image as ‘horrible’.