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Wildlife

We remove large dead animals (badgers, cats, deer, dogs, foxes, sheep, swans) from public areas and local roads.

We do not collect:

  • birds and small animals (rabbits, hedgehogs, rats or squirrels)
  • dead animals from a private property, this is the responsibility of the landowner
  • farm animals

If you find boar or deer contact the Forestry Commission to arrange for removal on 0300 067 4800. 

We will try to find the owners of a cat or dog through the collar or microchip.  If there is no identification and it is not a hazard, we will leave for a short time so the owner can find their pet and dispose of it how they want. We will collect these types of animals if left.

If you find more than five dead swans, wild gulls, waders or ducks please contact the Defra Helpline on 08459 335577 (9am to 5pm Monday to Friday). You will be asked for details of the birds and the location.

Report a dead animal by the road

Please be aware that we use a specialised team to remove dead animals and unless a road is being blocked, the dead animal may be left in place until our next scheduled visit to the area. 

Badgers

Under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992 it is a serious offence to kill, injure or take a badger. Or to damage or interfere with a sett without a licence. For information about obtaining a licence go to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Protection.

For advice and information on how to prevent damage by badgers, contact the Badger Trust.

You can be prosecuted for possession of a dead badger. Never try to dispose of a dead badger yourself. If you see a dead badger on the side of the road fill in the online form or call us on 01285 623000.  We will collect and dispose of it.

Report a dead badger

If you find an injured badger, do not touch it. Contact the RSCPA on 08705 555999 or contact your local vet.

Foxes

The killing of foxes is restricted under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

There are several chemical deterrents available from garden centres and DIY stores. They will be able to advise what is most suitable for your situation. You are not permitted to use non-approved products such as creosote and diesel oil, these can be dangerous to other animals and pets.

If you find an injured fox, do not touch it. Contact the RSCPA on 08705 555999 or contact your local vet.

We will collect any dead foxes found on the side of the road.