Charity appeal after fox ensnared in illegally-used trap on estate

An animal charity has issued an appeal and warning after a dead fox was found caught in an illegal trap.

The animal’s decomposing body, ensnared in a spring trap, was discovered by a member of the public in Henry Doulton Drive, Tooting on Sunday afternoon.

Another fox was spotted fleeing the site with a trap attached to its paw.

While spring traps are permitted for rodent control, the RSPCA said they must be used in accordance with guidelines so non-target animals aren’t trapped in them.

RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer (ARO) Yalina Blumer, who is investigating the incident, said it is unclear whether the traps were set up at the location or whether the foxes had travelled from nearby. 

The charity is appealing for anyone with information.

Ms Blumer said: “Spring traps are cruel and barbaric and this poor fox died a horrific death. This is a trap which might have been used and intended for rodents, but it hasn’t been used correctly and this poor creature has died an agonising death.

“These traps are totally indiscriminate in nature and victims can be wildlife or family pets.

“Larger animals, like this fox who was trapped by the legs, can endure a painful death as a result of these traps.”

The RSPCA is opposed to the manufacture, sale and use of all traps which cause suffering. 

Anyone found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal faces an unlimited fine or up to five years in prison.

The RSPCA’s advice is that they should be covered and placed at a position where it is unlikely to impact on other animals. 

There is more information about rodents and foxes, including humane deterrent methods, at the RSPCA website

Anyone with any information about this incident is asked to ring the RSPCA appeals line number on 0300 123 8018 and refer to incident number 01498375.

Pictured top: The foxes paw caught in the spring trap in Henry Doulton Drive, Tooting (Picture: RSPCA)