Teen Lifeguard Rescues Osprey from Fishing Hooks in South Carolina

Last week, 17-year-old lifeguard Richard Miller saved the life of an osprey off Folly Beach, South Carolina, after spotting the bird struggling in the water.

According to Garden & Gun, initially, Miller thought the bird was simply trying to fly, but upon closer inspection with binoculars, he realized it was caught in fishing gear, with hooks embedded in one of its wings.

Without hesitation, Miller used his training to swim out on a surfboard and help the exhausted bird aboard.

Miller carefully paddled back to shore, making sure to avoid any waves that could cause further harm to the osprey.

Once safely on the beach, Miller called for help, and the Center for Birds of Prey, a nearby wildlife rehabilitation center, was contacted.

The osprey was then placed in a box and transported for medical treatment, where it was found to have three fishing hooks embedded in its body.

Fortunately, no bones were broken, and the bird was treated for its injuries.

This isn’t the first time birds in the area have been harmed by fishing gear. According to Michael Bradley, Parks Manager at Folly Beach, birds often fly too close to the fishing pier and get entangled in lines.

Local lifeguards are trained in wildlife emergencies, with the Center for Birds of Prey always on call. The center rescues around a thousand injured birds every year, many of which are caught in fishing lines, a common issue for ospreys, which feed exclusively on fish.

Thanks to Miller’s quick thinking and bravery, the osprey is expected to recover fully and return to the wild. It’s a reminder that every action counts when it comes to preserving wildlife. Whether you’re a lifeguard or a bystander, it’s important to know how to help animals in distress. Every bit of awareness and action matters in the fight to protect our planet’s creatures.

Let’s all follow Richard Miller’s example—stay vigilant and ready to step in when needed. The environment—and its inhabitants—need all the help we can give.

This article by Nicholas Vincent was first published by One Green Planet on 10 July 2025. Lead Image Credit :Imogen Warren/Shutterstock.

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