Vets cut a seagull free from a Covid-19 face covering after it is found struggling to walk.
RSPCA Inspector Adam Jones was called to Argyll Road, Chelmsford, on Saturday, where the gull was found tangled in the face covering.
A specialist team at South Essex Wildlife Hospital cut the elastic straps from the gull's legs, which were swollen and sore.
RSPCA staff have warned people to dispose of single-use masks responsibly to avoid more animal casualties.