An orphaned fox cub was rescued after being found at the side of a road with a hand-written note saying “my mum died - help me”.
The cub was found in a carrier in Langley Moor, Durham, on Wednesday, but it’s not known who put the cub in the carrier or who wrote the note on a Greggs paper bag.
RSPCA animal rescue officer Shane Lynn collected the fox and took him to a vets for a check-up where he was given a clean bill of health. He is now in the care of an RSPCA wildlife centre.
Shane said: “It is heart breaking what happened to this poor fox cub - but we are so grateful that he was found and is now in a safe place where he can recuperate.
“It is very sad that he isn’t growing up in the wild with his mum but we are so grateful to all the members of the public for contacting us about him and taking the time to rescue and save his life. It's a lovely reminder that there's so many wildlife friends out there.”
While the sunny weather has put smiles on the faces of most, spring also means busy season is arriving for the RSPCA’s officers and wildlife centre staff as this time of year the charity sees a surge in calls about baby wild animals and birds.
During the spring baby boom, it’s not uncommon to see baby animals on their own.
The charity is grateful to any member of the public that takes the time to contact them about animals they fear need help.
However, it is important to remember that not all young animals need rescuing and many would be better off being left where they are and monitored for as long as possible as the parents are usually nearby.
If you see a wild animal you believe could be orphaned, the RSPCA urges the public to keep monitoring them as their mum will probably be nearby. If after 24 hours there is no sign of their parents, visit the website for further advice.
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