Wildlife First Response

20/11/2025

19/11/2025

Oooh better get one while you can! I love mine! 💚

17/11/2025

To do, or not to do, that is sometimes the question...

When Siobhan spotted an unusual bird in her Thurso garden she wasn't sure what to do, so she took a couple of pictures and videos and gave us a ring to see if she should do something.

We don't usually expect to see many Water Rails wandering around town gardens, but our advice takes lots of factors into account including visible injuries, whether the animal is mobile, fluffed up, shaking its head, how long it has been there and whether it has space to take off, or access to adjoining areas.

We also need to consider the stress that containing a wild animal causes, as well as handling, transport, amd whether there is help closer to that location. We work collaboratively with veterinary practices across the Highland region, as well as our fabulous frontline SSPCA friends and colleagues.

Always ring for a chat about the next steps if you're unsure -.wildlife rescue centres will be happy to hear from you 💚

17/11/2025

A reminder that I have a limited stock of Deer Whistles available to buy at £8 each including UK P&P.

No animal should be left at the side of a road to die in horrific pain and fear.

Deer Whistles aren’t the solution but they may go some way to helping. For just £8, does it hurt to try?

If you’d like to order (3 x pairs left), comment below.

This wonderful photo was sent to me by Jordan James The Autistic Photographer

A stunning capture of a majestic animal. Just wonderful. Thank you, Jordan.

13/11/2025

I have three sets of Deer Whistles currently in stock for £8.00 per set including UK p&p.

First come, first served.

Comment below if you’d like them & can pay via PayPal. I’ll post out asap.

12/11/2025

*Roe Deer Incident at Longhaven Cliffs Nature Reserve*

Earlier today, we were called to assist with a roe deer that had become trapped in fencing along the footpath at Longhaven Cliffs Nature Reserve.

Sadly, by the time the deer was discovered by a member of the public, it had been caught for at least several hours, and the lower portion of the trapped leg had been almost completely amputated by the wire, with multiple open fractures. Despite a rapid response, the extent of the injuries and condition of the deer meant the outcome was a sad one.

This kind of incident is far from rare, over the years, we’ve been called to deer, foxes, birds of prey, garden birds, and many other species all found trapped in fencing.

We’re urging landowners, walkers, and anyone managing outdoor spaces to regularly check fencing for signs of trapped animals, and to ensure fencing is in good order to help reduce the risk of wildlife becoming entangled. Even small gaps, loose wires, or areas of disrepair can lead to tragedy.

If you find an animal caught in fencing:

1) Do not attempt to free it yourself. You could cause further injury to the animal, or even to yourself. A badly injured animal may also flee and suffer a slow, painful death.

2) If the animal is collapsed and it’s safe to do so, you may gently cover its head with a jacket or towel to help calm it.

3) Immediately contact your nearest wildlife rescue centre for assistance.

Please make sure you have the exact location ready, using What3Words is extremely helpful in allowing rescuers to find you/ the animal quickly.

Every call helps us to prevent unnecessary suffering. Thank you to the kind member of the public who raised the alarm today, your quick actions meant a more humane end for this poor deer.

*Photograph taken after euthanasia, and prior to removal from the fence*

12/11/2025

When you just didn’t see that car coming!

At this time of year we get many pheasants brought in after a collision with a car. This gorgeous male makes number 4 in care so far; all with the same symptoms of being “off legs” - often due to spinal swelling and/or spinal trauma. A course of pain relief/anti inflammatories can do the trick to get them back on their feet but sadly not all make it.

Please take care driving round country lanes especially in the early hours of the day - this is when pheasants are most active. We all know they aren’t the smartest creatures and will often run down the road instead of off it but be patient, they’ll figure it out soon enough!

12/11/2025

09/11/2025

First job of the day removing this beautiful little one from the road in Moray. Many drivers passed by and perhaps never gave another thought.

Even if Deer Whistles don’t work, surely for less than a tenner, it’s worth the effort to try?

08/11/2025

A relative bought me a Badger t-shirt!! How bloomin’ awesome is this, WFR pals!