A YOUNG female fox had to be rescued after getting her head stuck in a rat bait box in York.

The RSPCA was called by concerned security workers after they saw the fox with a green box on her head, struggling to get free in wasteland near Millfield Lane.

RSPCA Animal Collection Officer Helen Martindale tried to free the fox, before taking her to a local vets.

The vet sedated the fox then lubricated her neck before releasing her from the box. The fox was then given a reversal injection for the sedative and

ACO Martindale was able to release her back to where she was found, later that day.

ACO Martindale said: “This poor fox had managed to get her head completely stuck in the bait box - she was absolutely terrified.

“Fortunately there was no poison in the box and the little fox hadn’t ingested any, so I was able to release her back into the wild where she belongs.

“I’d like to thank the member of the public who called us and also the vets for their assistance in freeing the fox.”

If you see an animal in distress you can ring the RSPCA 24-hour emergency line on 0300 123 4999.

The RSPCA urges the use of humane deterrents for dealing with unwanted rats and mice, including removing food and shelter.

Where poison is used, great care needs to be taken to avoid trapping non-target animals, including careful positioning of bait boxes and very regular checks. We advise anyone considering these measures to employ a reputable pest control agency. More information can be found at www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/wildlife/livingwith