A female fallow deer trapped in netting was rescued and safely released today, thanks to the swift actions of East Sussex Wildlife Rescue & Ambulance Service (WRAS). The rescue, carried out by a specialist deer disentanglement team, took place on the morning of December 20, just days before Christmas.
https:///www.youtube.com/watch?v=KA-PfAoP0K4&t=3s
Emergency Call for Help
The WRAS team received a call from a local resident who discovered the deer ensnared in netting in her garden. Unable to free itself, the doe was in distress, prompting WRAS to dispatch its expert team, including Trevor Weeks MBE, WRAS founder, and rescuers Brian Downing, Ellie Langridge, and Abbie Marsden.
“These rescues are always challenging,” explained Trevor Weeks. “A single kick from a deer can cause serious injury, and their heightened sensitivity to stress can lead to capture myopathy, a condition that can cause internal damage or even a heart attack.”
Swift and Safe Action
The team worked quickly to secure the deer and carefully cut away the netting. The netting, which had tightened around the deer’s neck, posed an immediate risk. Once freed, the doe was examined for injuries but was found to be unharmed. After clearing a safe escape route, the rescuers released the deer, which ran off into nearby woods.
“This rescue was an excellent example of teamwork,” said Trevor. “It’s not uncommon for us to deal with bucks caught by their antlers, but this time it was a doe. Seeing her run back into the woods was incredibly rewarding. She was very lucky—many deer in similar situations go unnoticed and don’t survive.”
Ongoing Efforts Throughout the Holiday Season
WRAS emphasized that their team remains on-call throughout Christmas and New Year to assist wildlife in distress. While the deer rescue was underway, WRAS rescuer Tony Neads was simultaneously attending to an injured swan on the Cliffe High Street bridge in Lewes, followed by another rescue in Eastbourne.
“Our wildlife doesn’t recognize holidays—it’s just another day for them. That’s why we continue to assist and care for animals in need, no matter the season,” Trevor added.
Supporting Wildlife Rescues
East Sussex WRAS is a community charity dedicated to protecting and aiding wildlife. The organization relies entirely on public donations to continue its work. To support their efforts or for more information, visit www.wildlifeambulance.org.
