Drama in West Sussex village as RSPCA rescues deer trapped under vines

The RSPCA said the exhausted deer was trapped by his antlers at the village near Pulborough and was lying down after struggling to free himself,.

The charity said he was spotted by a member of the public who raised the alarm at about 2pm on Wednesday, February 11.

RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer (ARO) Marie Stevens was at the scene with ARO colleagues Megan Lloyd and Catherine Budd.

Marie said: “The poor buck had got himself into quite a tangle. He was lying down – and clearly exhausted from trying to free himself. It’s likely the deer was rubbing his antlers on vegetation to establish territory. Unfortunately this buck chose completely the wrong spot and became completely tangled in thick vines.

“He was also trapped beside flooded woodland, so the situation could have quickly become a lot more dangerous. Thankfully the caller spotted him and contacted us when he did. We were able to carefully secure the buck, cut him free, and guide him through the shallow water to freedom.”

The RSPCA said the buck made his way back into the countryside after he was freed.

Marie said: “We’re relieved he survived his ordeal, and hopefully next time he chooses somewhere a little safer to mark his territory!”

Visit www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/wildlife/deer for information about what you should do if you see a deer in trouble.