A fox cub found itself in a ‘wheel’ tight spot after it got its little head stuck in a hubcap.
The distressed animal was spotted struggling by a member of the public in Wolverhampton, West Midlands.
RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Charlotte Holder attempted to free the fox but eventually had to call the fire service for assistance, as reported by What’s The Jam.
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Charlotte said: “This poor fox was clearly terrified.
“Thankfully West Midlands Fire and Rescue Service were able to free the fox.
“She’s now getting the care he needs at Vale Wildlife Hospital and Rehabilitation Centre and will be released back into the wild when she is ready.
“I’m so grateful to the fire and rescue service for sparing some of their time to help this little fox – she really wouldn’t have been able to free himself without help from us all.”
A West Midlands Fire Service spokesperson added: “That’s a wheel-y tight spot.
“Firefighters from Tettenhall went to the rescue in Whitmore Reans, Wolverhampton, after the curious cub got stuck in the middle of a wheel.
“Working with the RSPCA and with expert support from our Technical Rescue Unit, they carefully freed the little one, making sure it stayed safe and well throughout.
“A paw-sitive outcome all round.”
Last year a whopping 10,209 wild animals were admitted to the RSPCA’s wildlife centres, compared to 7,519 in 2023 – a staggering 35% increase in just one year.
RSPCA wildlife expert Rebecca Machin said: “These shocking wildlife centre admission numbers show that wild animals face huge challenges.
“We cannot tackle this alone – so we’re urgently asking the public to do their bit to help animals.
“We’d like to make gardens a better place for wildlife, from removing hazards like netting which can seriously injure or kill, to ensuring that your garden offers an environment that can help a range of wild animals flourish, such as adding ponds and wild areas.
“Everyone can do their bit – and there are so many simple solutions to help create a safe haven outside your back door, or in your community, this year.
“We feel this could be a lifeline for wildlife, and also take some of the pressure of our dedicated teams on the frontline.
“And outside the garden, getting involved in litter picking and helping out with projects such as the annual toads in roads migratory patrols are also ways of doing your bit for wildlife, and being a Wildlife Friend in your community.
“By working together, we can create a better world for every animal, and for every kind.”
