Wildlife charity in urgent funds appeal

Severe lack of funds threatens the number of wild animals and birds the Sussex-based charity, East Sussex Wildlife Rescue & Ambulance Service (WRAS), will be able to help this winter.

WRAS co-founder Trevor Weeks MBE said: “This has been an exceptionally busy year.

“We have been running at 90 to 100 per cent capacity since Easter.

“At the moment we are not receiving enough funds to continue taking in casualties.

“We need to concentrate our efforts on looking after those who we already have in our care.”

At its Whitesmith-based Wildlife Casualty Centre, WRAS is currently treating 85 patients, including 40 hedgehogs, 15 wood pigeons, 10 collared doves, two mice and one each of a fox, rabbit, gold finch, redwing and rabbit.

Although the charity relies upon public support and donated expertise, veterinary, food, electricity and insurance costs have significantly increased this year.

Trevor said: “We do not want to turn away any wild bird or animal who needs our help.”

Three years ago, the charity could only help up to 40 casualties at a time.

But this year more than 1,600 wild animals and birds have received care from WRAS so far, with up to 100 patients at any one time being treated.

The average cost of taking in a single casualty is £75.

WRAS is launching an emergency appeal for funds.

Donations can be sent to East Sussex WRAS, PO Box 2148, Seaford, East Sussex, BN25 9DE. They can be also made by calling 01825873003 during office hours. or visit www.wildlifeambulance.org.