Trapped Grass Snake Saved by Animal Charity
A young grass snake which became trapped in plastic netting has been cut free and is recovering well thanks to Secret World Wildlife Rescue in East Huntspill, Somerset.
The snake, named Moss by charity staff, was found caught in netting in a garden in Berrow, seven miles away from the charity’s centre.
Secret World quickly dispatched one of its volunteer response drivers to the scene, where the snake was very distressed – as was the homeowner who had a fear of snakes.
The response driver managed to cut the snake free at the scene and bring it back to Secret World’s hospital as it still had some of the netting tight around its body. Charity staff began the delicate operation of removing the rest of the netting and animal carer Sarah Tingvoll used nail scissors to patiently cut it free.
Sarah said: “Once the netting had been removed, Moss perked up immediately. While assessing him, we noticed he had an old wound which had caused his scales to become slightly dislodged.
“As a precaution, Moss will stay on site and will be further assessed by our vet from the Quantock Veterinary Hospital. Once he has been given a clean bill of health, we will release him back into the wild.”
Grass snakes are one of three native species of snakes in the UK. During this warm weather, they can be spotted basking in the sun near their favourite ponds.
If you find an injured or poorly animal, call Secret World on 01278 783250.
Notes for editors:
- Secret World Wildlife Rescue is one of the South West’s leading wildlife rescue charities (charity number 1097119) based in East Huntspill in Somerset.
- Now in its 26th year, Secret World Wildlife Rescue cares for more than 5,000 sick, injured and orphaned animals each year.
- As well as being a respected source of expertise and a centre of excellence where British wildlife receives the best care, Secret World has an extensive volunteer programme and engages with schools to promote respect for wildlife and the environment, adding further benefits to the local community.
- As Secret World does not receive any government funding, it relies entirely on the generosity of supporters and donors to carry out this important work for British wildlife.
- The charity’s website is www.secretworld.org
