Dramatic Rescue at Weirwood Reservoir as Buck Found Dragging Dead Mate
Deer Caught in Deadly Tangle
On Thursday, October 17th, 2024, East Sussex Wildlife Rescue & Ambulance Service (WRAS) rushed to Weirwood Reservoir, Forest Row, after a fallow buck was found with its antlers locked to a deceased deer. Such entanglements, rare even during rutting season, often spell disaster for one or both animals.
Typically, these incidents involve deer snagging ropes still tangled in their antlers. Sometimes, well-meaning people try to free one animal but leave ropes behind, which then catch another deer. The surviving deer is often forced to drag the dead mate through rough terrain, causing distress and exhaustion.
High-Stakes Rescue in Rough Terrain
A team of five rescuers and two veterinary ambulances, led by WRAS founder Trevor Weeks MBE, battled thick vegetation to reach the trapped buck. “Navigating through tall plants was challenging, and getting too close was risky as the deer could swing and injure us. Patience was key,” Trevor explained.
They had to cut through an old, tightly wound rope with wire cutters. The rescue took nine intense minutes—longer than usual because of the tough conditions.
Stress is a Killer
Deer are extremely prone to stress, which can cause capture myopathy—a deadly condition leading to heart failure. Rescuers have just 30 minutes to act before the animal’s life is at risk.
Trevor revealed, “The deer was surprisingly strong and even tried pulling me into the bushes. Thankfully, Daryl and I kept control. Releasing frightened deer must be done carefully because they can be dangerous when stressed.”
Freedom and a Thankful Glance
Once freed, the buck leapt over the undergrowth, paused to look back at its rescuers, then disappeared into the woods. WRAS, funded entirely by donations, urges the public to support their vital wildlife emergency work.
