A YOUNG fox injured while caught in an illegally-set snare in the Gwaun Valley had a lucky escape after it was rescued by an RSPCA officer.

The animal welfare charity was contacted after a member of the public found the fox trapped in the snare on a public footpath in the Gwaun Valley, near Llanychaer, earlier this month.

RSPCA inspector Keith Hogben said: “This snare was set at the base of a tree and on a slope, so I do not believe was compliant with the law, nor the Welsh Government’s code of practice for the use of snares in fox control.

“This fox was understandably very distressed, but luckily I was able to remove the snare without the need for sedation.

The fox was taken into our care - to a wildlife specialist centre - and following a period of rehabilitation, was then released near to the original incident location a few days later.

“He had sustained an injury to his back legs from where he had become entangled in the snare, but the injury healed following treatment.

“Luckily this fox wasn’t injured more seriously as the way the snare was set could have caused great suffering.

“If anyone has information, they’re urged to contact our inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.”

The public is urged to never try to free an animal from a snare or trap.

Call the RSPCA with the location on the charity's 24-hour emergency line, 0300 1234 999.

By law, snares must be inspected at least once every day, however the Welsh Government’s Code recommends that snares are inspected twice daily.

The setting of a snare also requires the authorisation of the landowner - but, in this instance, the local farm had no knowledge of the snare.

RSPCA Cymru is opposed to the manufacture, sale and use of all snares or any trap which causes suffering. Snares are cruel and indiscriminate in what they catch – and the animal welfare charity supports an outright ban on their use in Wales.