Fox cubs needing assistance

Dear Editor,

It’s that time of year again when the countryside and, indeed, the towns are full of young wildlife. These juvenile animals that depend on their parents are the most vulnerable of all wildlife and frequently need assistance.

The ISPCA has noted an increase in the amount of calls received regarding foxes in difficulty, particularly in the Cork area where Inspector Lisa O’Donovan has responded to several fox calls in a short period of time. Many of the calls are in relation to cubs. It’s always important that we establish whether they are orphaned or if their mother is nearby. In recent events the misfortunates were orphaned. Dealing with wildlife is a sensitive issue, especially regarding foxes. It is important that we respect they are wild and should not be kept as pets. It’s simply not fair. It’s also important that their release when of age is done correctly. Foxes are territorial and you simply cannot release an animal into an established territory that it has not come from.

The recently rescued cubs are now in the hands of professionals who will rear and release them in a carefully monitored capacity. In the event of members of the public finding orphaned cubs we strongly advise they contact their local wild life experts or the ISPCA for advice.

Yours etc.,

Carmel Murray

ISPCA Head Office

Derryglogher,

Keenagh

Co. Longford