Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/fox-steals-phone/
In a humorous twist to an otherwise routine wildlife rescue, a curious fox in Surrey, England, managed to outsmart an RSPCA rescuer by making off with his mobile phone.
The incident, which unfolded in the woodlands of Bagshot, saw Animal Rescue Officer Ben Fitzcosta momentarily outfoxed by the very creature he was there to save.
Foxes often investigate new objects with keen interest.
Unexpected Turn in Wildlife Rescue
Fitzcosta, responding to reports of a limping fox, set up his phone to capture the rescue operation on film. However, the plan took an unexpected turn when one of two foxes present, intrigued by the device, snatched it up and dashed off into the foliage, all while the phone continued to record the escapade, UPI reports.
The fox, displaying a mix of cunning and curiosity, didn’t just run off with the device; it also managed to take a selfie video, inadvertently documenting its brief adventure with the phone under a nearby bush.
Foxes possess a natural inquisitiveness akin to that of domestic cats.
The Chase and Recovery
The cheeky act forced Fitzcosta into an impromptu chase, eventually leading to the recovery of his phone from a bush where the fox had abandoned it. Reflecting on the incident, the Daily Mail reports, Fitzcosta couldn’t hide his amusement
“It did make my day to be honest, the video is very funny,” he said. “I’m glad I got my phone back – I had to jog to catch up with him as I knew he’d dump it in a bush somewhere!”
Fox curiosity leads them to approach and examine human artifacts.
Successful Rescue Amidst the Mischief
Despite the unexpected detour, the mission was not compromised. Fitzcosta successfully located and rescued the injured fox, which was then transported to Harper Asprey Wildlife Rescue for treatment of an inflamed leg due to an old injury, MSN reports. The hope remains strong for a full recovery, highlighting the dedication of wildlife rescuers to their cause, even in the face of unforeseen challenges.
The curiosity of a fox is evident in its cautious yet bold approach.
Implications for Wildlife Welfare
Wildlife rescue operations can be unpredictable and rescuers need to adapt their techniques to respond with care. It’s always fascinating when we see discover of the intelligence and curiosity of wild animals, but these traits can also lead to unexpected interactions.
As spring approaches, the RSPCA urges the public to assist in the welfare of small, sick, or injured wildlife by taking them directly to veterinarians or wildlife rehabilitators. This not only ensures timely care for the animals but also allows RSPCA specialists to focus on cases of cruelty and neglect during peak periods.
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This is more than just a humorous anecdote; it’s a testament to the unpredictable, challenging, and often rewarding nature of wildlife rescue. Through quick thinking and persistence, wildlife rescuers like Fitzcosta continue to make a significant impact on the lives of animals in need, even when faced with the most cunning of creatures.
Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog
