Wildlife rescuers from East Sussex WRAS (Wildlife Rescue & Ambulance Service) sprang into action yesterday after receiving an emergency call about a fox cub entangled in football goal netting at Beckley’s recreation ground near the Kent border.
The call came from a visiting family who had noticed the trapped fox. With other local organizations overwhelmed, WRAS’s Trevor Weeks, though off rescue duty, volunteered to respond as all on-duty rescuers were occupied. The family stayed with the fox to ensure its safety until Trevor arrived.
Upon arrival, Trevor found the fox cub severely entangled in the netting. After extensive cutting, the cub was freed but was dehydrated and had potential hidden ligature wounds. The fox was transported to WRAS’s centre for treatment and is currently receiving care and observation. The hope is for a successful recovery.
To prevent such incidents, East Sussex WRAS recommends securing netting about 2 feet above the ground using cable ties, allowing foxes, badgers, hedgehogs, and other animals to pass underneath safely. For areas frequented by deer, it is best to remove the netting when not in use or secure it tightly to the crossbar with cable ties.
This approach not only protects wildlife but also fosters harmonious coexistence between communities and the natural world. WRAS continues to educate the public on wildlife-friendly practices and stresses the importance of vigilance in recreational areas.
Social media users expressed their gratitude to WRAS and Trevor Weeks for their swift and compassionate response. “Thank you for coming out to help so quickly today; it was so hot there too for the poor fox,” said Lisa Knight. “Well done, when will these clubs start putting nets away after matches? They don’t gain anything as their nets have to be cut to get poor wildlife free,” added Glynis de Rokeby.
The incident highlights the delicate balance between human activities and wildlife habitats. As East Sussex develops, the number of wildlife-human conflicts will likely increase, putting further strain on already underfunded wildlife rescue organizations. “Today is a good example of how everyone in East Sussex was stretched, including WRAS,” said Trevor Weeks. “As we all get busier and more organizations close due to lack of support and finances, I fear more casualties will have to wait longer for help. All wildlife rescue groups in East Sussex need far more funding than they are currently getting, so please, if you can donate, please do.”
To support East Sussex WRAS in their wildlife conservation efforts, consider donating by visiting www.wildlifeambulance.org or scanning the QR code.
