(RSPCA via SWNS)
By Adam Dutton
A hapless fox cub needed rescuing by firefighters after getting its head firmly stuck inside a wheel.
Fire crews and RSPCA rescuers were called after a member of the public spotted the distressed animal struggling in Wolverhampton.
Firefighters attended the scene and used cutting equipment to free the trapped young female fox from the metal wheel on April 8.
She was then taken to Vale Wildlife Hospital and Rehabilitation Centre in Tewkesbury, Glos., where she is now recovering before being released back into the wild.
(RSPCA via SWNS)
RSPCA animal rescue officer Charlotte Holder said: “This poor fox was clearly terrified.
"Thankfully West Midland Fire & Rescue Service was able to free the fox.
“She’s now getting the care he needs at Vale Wildlife Hospital and Rehabilitation Centre and will be released back into the wild when she is ready.
"I’m so grateful to the fire and rescue service for sparing some of their time to help this little fox - she really wouldn’t have been able to free himself without help from us all.
“In the spring, it's normal to see month-old cubs developing their survival skills above ground during the day. Their parents are usually nearby, watching.
"Parent foxes are unlikely to approach the cubs if people are around. Vixens will move their litter one by one if they feel the den has been disturbed and so you may come across cubs then."
(RSPCA via SWNS)
The animal charity said last year 10,209 wild animals were admitted to their wildlife centers, compared to 7,519 in 2023 - a 35 percent increase in just one year.
RSPCA wildlife expert Rebecca Machin said: “These shocking wildlife center admission numbers show that wild animals face huge challenges.
"We cannot tackle this alone - so we’re urgently asking the public to do their bit to help animals
“We’d like to make gardens a better place for wildlife, from removing hazards like netting which can seriously injure or kill, to ensuring that your garden offers an environment that can help a range of wild animals flourish, such as adding ponds and wild areas.
“Everyone can do their bit - and there are so many simple solutions to help create a safe haven outside your back door, or in your community, this year.
"We feel this could be a lifeline for wildlife, and also take some of the pressure of our dedicated teams on the frontline.
“And outside the garden, getting involved in litter picking and helping out with projects such as the annual toads in roads migratory patrols are also ways of doing your bit for wildlife, and being a wildlife friend in your community.
“By working together, we can create a better world for every animal, and for every kind”.
