Deer rescued in Emsworth after antlers tangled in electric fence

A deer found tangled in electric fencing with a six-foot (1.8m) post dragging from its antlers has been rescued and released.

The fallow buck was discovered trapped in the fencing on Copse Lane, Emsworth on 23 October by a passer-by who called the RSPCA.

Rescue officer at the charity Marie Stevens said she found the “poor buck very distressed” entangled in the wires with “the heavy pole attached which must have been putting pressure on his head.”

The deer was sedated by a local vet before the tangled mass of fence was quickly cut away to release its antlers. Ms Stevens said after a few hours recovering in shrubland “it was a joy to watch him rejoin his herd”.

Ms Stevens added: “Deer are particularly susceptible to stress and in many cases they do not survive long after being trapped due to stress-induced muscle breakdown.

“Fortunately, this buck responded well.”

The charity has advised people who find an injured, trapped, entangled, or sick deer to call its helpline, keep a safe distance and not to try to rescue or handle them.