Rescue operation underway for famous Broome bird Millie the black kite after joining cruise to Bali

A rescue operation is currently underway for a native black kite, fondly known as Millie by Broome locals, after overstaying her welcome on a luxury cruise liner.

Millie was seen taking shelter from thunderstorms on the North American cruise ship, the Seabourn Sojourn, which docked at Broome Jetty on March 24.

Known to frequent local businesses around Broome, Millie became quite comfortable with her surroundings and failed to fly home before the ship departed for Bali.

Broome Native Animal Rescue volunteer and newly appointed Shire of Broome deputy president Chris Mitchell said he was working on getting her transported back to Broome safely.

“Millie is sitting in quarantine in Bali at the moment,” he said.

“We’re hoping to get her back home soon.”

It’s understood once Millie returns to Broome, she would be kept in captivity as an education animal.

Millie the black kite came to Native Animal Rescue Broome when she was a nestling in June 2021 and was hand reared until her release in October.

In the years since, countless sightings have been made of the young bird, including a recent incident when concerned locals called the ranger to attend to a “sick or injured bird” sitting on the sand at Cable Beach.

Native Animal Rescue coordinator Chris Mitchell told the Broome Advertiser last year that because Millie was hand-reared by humans, she does not have the same fear other birds do.

Millie is regularly spotted around town, with appearances at the Mangrove Hotel, Broome Golf Club, Town Beach Jetty and several caravan parks.

And while she poses no threat, Mr Mitchell said he wants to remind the public she is a wild bird.