Release of an entangled animal

Some causes of entanglement may be easily removed by cutting, such as fishing wire or nets. However, consideration should be given to manipulating the animal away from the cause of entanglement, especially if cutting or spreading would require specialist resources or equipment.

Any equipment should be assessed for its suitability for releasing the animal. It should be used effectively and safely, while ensuring that personnel do not become entangled.

High tensile (H-T or HT) fencing

If it is not possible to avoid cutting high tensile fencing, it may be possible to first loosen or de-tension it. This can be carried out by using a ratchet or hand-crank mechanism, usually found at corner posts, to gradually release the tension.

Cattle grids

Hydraulic spreaders or cutters may be required in order to create sufficient space in the cattle grid for the entangled animal to be manipulated or lifted out of the grid.

If the animal is entangled in a heavy-duty cattle grid, specialist rescue equipment may be required, especially if it is necessary to cut through thick steel.

Pre-release consideration

Animals entangled in snares or traps should not be released into the wild, as they are likely to be injured. Assistance from a veterinary surgeon or animal rescue organisation should be obtained.

Before the animal is released, the control measure Determine an appropriate rescue route and destination for the animal should be considered.

Invasive non-native (alien) animals

For information about the release of an entangled invasive non-native (alien) animal refer to Determine an appropriate rescue route and destination for the animal.