Duck spotted with Coca-Cola sleeve wrapped around neck at Leith Docks in Edinburgh

A duck has been spotted with a bright red Coca-Cola sleeve wrapped around its neck, shining a spotlight on the dangers of littering.

SOS Leith, a community group in the area, posted an image of the duck to social media on Friday, at Leith’s Albert Dock.

Group member Annette, who originally took the image and reported the duck to the Scottish SPCA, was “devastated” to see the effect of littering so clearly.

She told STV News that her partner and a neighbour mentioned seeing the female eider duck with the wrapper around its neck in the past.

“These ducks really depend on diving to feed – they primarily eat shellfish – so I think it must have dove into the wrapper,” said Annette.

“It is so upsetting to see – really very upsetting to see because you see it more and more, its devastating to see the impact of our habits on nature.”

Wildlife groups are concerned for the duck’s welfare, as they say the plastic could prove hazardous to the eider if it tightens.

Scottish SPCA animal rescue officer, Brian Todd, said: “We received a report on Friday of a duck with a coke bottle label around its neck at Leith Docks.

“When we attended we were unable to access the bird, but the label was loose and not an immediate cause for concern so the bird will be monitored.

“Litter can have devastating consequences on animals. Most commonly we see seals and birds caught up in fishing line or wire, or wildlife visiting gardens becoming tangled in netting. Animals could also ingest small pieces of rubbish and choke or die.

“The majority of these injuries and deaths are entirely avoidable if people disposed of their rubbish responsibly. We continue to raise awareness around this subject, as well as support Keep Scotland Beautiful and their mission to protect environments and habitats to ensure Scotland’s wildlife can thrive for years to come.”