RSPCA issues World Cup warning after wildlife caught in goal netting

RSPCA issues World Cup warning after wildlife caught in goal netting Foxes and other wildlife can easily become entangled in nets, which can cause stress and severe injuries - Bookmark - CommentsGo to comments The RSPCA is urging football fans to safely store away goal netting after finding deer and foxes caught in nets during the World Cup. Unsecured goal netting can pose a serious danger to wildlife if they become entangled, causing serious injuries and stress that can be fatal. The wildlife charity has issued a warning after seeing an increase in incidents since the start of the World Cup. Animal rescue officers Joanna Thorpe and Emma Baker recently helped a deer that had become trapped in football netting in Grundisburgh, Suffolk. The net was stuck around its neck, head and legs, causing it to bleed around its head and antler buds. The rescue officers were able to cut the deer free from the netting and, after assessing the deer's condition, released the animal back into the wild. “It’s fortunate that the poor deer was spotted when he was. The netting had become wrapped around multiple parts of his body and he was clearly distressed,” Ms Thorpe said. “Wild animals can quickly panic when they become trapped, which can lead to serious injuries as they struggle to escape. In some cases, animals can suffer fatal injuries or die from stress after becoming entangled. “Thankfully we were able to free this deer and release him back into the wild, but incidents like this are entirely preventable - and it’s important to know, with the World Cup ongoing, that fans of all ages know how they can help.” In another incident, a young fox became trapped in football goal netting in north London. Animal rescue officer Nicola Thomas was called to aschool on 15 June. Ms Thomas found the fox struggling to free itself after becoming caught in the mesh. She carefully released the fox from the netting but the fox was taken to Essex Wildlife Hospital for further treatment due to its neck injuries. The fox was released back into the wild a few days later. “The netting had become tightly wrapped around his neck and it was clear he needed veterinary attention after being freed,” Ms Thomas said. “Young foxes are naturally curious and spend much of their time exploring. Sadly, that means that when hazards such as loose netting are left out, they can be put in danger. “Thankfully, this fox has made a full recovery and has been able to return to the wild where he belongs. But incidents like this are completely avoidable, and we are urging anyone using football goals this summer to take a few moments to put nets and equipment away after use – it could save an animal’s life.” Join our commenting forum Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies Comments