A FOX trapped in a snare in Holywell has been rescued and released by RSPCA Cymru.

Following his rescue near Llanerch-Y-Mor in February, the male fox was taken to RSPCA’s Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre for vet treatment.

After a successful period of rehabilitation rescuers released the fox back into the wild on Tuesday evening (March 6). Heartwarming video footage caught the moment the fox returned to the wild.

RSPCA inspector Jenny Anderton said: “The fox had become trapped on a snare that had been set on a fence line, without the permission of the landowner.

“The poor fox had to be sedated for him to be cut free. He had suffered an injury to his face, so he was kept under observation at RSPCA Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre to check the snare hadn't caused any lasting damage.

“It was lovely to finally see the fox being able to return to where he belongs.”

It is a legal requirement that snares be checked at least once a day, yet from the severity of the injuries caused to a lot of animals it is clear many people do not follow even this minimal requirement.

RSPCA Cymru is opposed to the manufacture, sale and use of all snares and any trap which causes suffering. Snares are cruel and indiscriminate in what they catch.

About 40 per cent of snared animals are not the intended target species.

Inspector Anderton added: “This incident involved a free-running snare which is legal, but it is important to be aware that these snares can become damaged and rusted, which can mean they may in practice act as illegal self-locking snares.

“Crucially, it is up to the person setting the snare to ensure it complies with the law. This snare in question was also placed without the permission of the landowner, which is a concern.”

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact the RSPCA's inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018. All calls are treated in confidence.

The public are also urged never try to and free an animal from a snare or trap – due to risk of injury to the human and animal, while it could also be an offence if the animal was legally caught. People instead should stay back to avoid stressing the animal and call the RSPCA with the location on the charity's 24-hour emergency line, 0300 1234 999. Advice is also available on the RSPCA’s website.

If you wish to help RSPCA Cymru rescue animals such as this, you can donate online. The RSPCA is a charity and rely on public donations.