Fears for baby foxes have sparked an RSPCA appeal after a vixen was found hanging from a fence.
The animal was discovered in Orchard Drive, near Cassiobury, with its tail and leg trapped and blood streaming from a head wound on Saturday, April 13.
It was reported to the RSPCA at around 8am, following which animal rescue officer Emily Hoad attended and freed the vixen – which had a suspected broken leg and was rushed to a vet.
Emily said it is expected to make a full recovery, but she is worried that because the vixen was lactating, she could have cubs in the area who may not survive without her.
“It seems the mum fox tried to jump over a fence and got her leg tangled and then as she tried to free herself she hit her head against a nearby wall,” Emily said.
“There was a large amount of blood loss due to the head injury but thankfully her predicament was spotted and we were able to act fast and release her.”
She continued: “We are now really worried that there are some orphaned fox cubs in the area who will struggle to survive without their mum.
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“We are appealing for anyone who sees a vulnerable cub alone in this area to call the RSPCA on 0300 123 8018 so we can try reunite them with their mum who can feed them in the care of the wildlife hospital.
“Then they can be released as a family once they are old enough.”
Emily urged people not to try and collect cubs themselves as it is important to ensure they belong to the vixen.
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