We recently received concerns from the public about fencing at Woolbeding Common, Redford, West Sussex, managed by the National Trust.
West Sussex Wildlife Protection regularly hears of deer becoming trapped on double-strand or barbed-wire fencing, often with tragic outcomes — in many cases, the animals have to be euthanised due to severe injuries.
In response, we wrote to the National Trust to highlight the risks and encourage safer practices. We were encouraged to receive a positive reply, confirming that the Trust is working to reduce fencing where possible, and that where fencing is necessary, they are reviewing their policy to prevent wildlife injuries.
It is heartening to see such a proactive response, and we hope it will lead to safer environments for deer and other wildlife across the site.