A tragic discovery in South London has prompted an urgent appeal from the RSPCA after a fox was found dead in a spring trap believed to have been used illegally.
The decomposing body of the animal was found on Sunday afternoon by a member of the public on Henry Doulton Drive in Tooting. The scene, both distressing and disturbing, highlighted a harsh truth: these traps, when misused, can have devastating consequences. Adding to the concern, another fox was seen fleeing the same area, visibly injured with a trap still clamped to its paw.
Fox found dead in Tooting
Spring traps are legal under UK law, but only under strict regulations, typically for controlling rodents. These laws are designed to prevent non-target species, like foxes or domestic pets, from becoming unintended victims.
However, the recent incident raises questions about compliance. RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Yalina Blumer, who is now leading the investigation, said the origin of the traps remains uncertain.
“Spring traps are cruel and barbaric and this poor fox died a horrific death. This is a trap which might have been used and intended for rodents, but it hasn’t been used correctly and this poor creature has died an agonising death.
These traps are totally indiscriminate in nature and victims can be wildlife or family pets. Larger animals, like this fox who was trapped by the legs, can endure a painful death as a result of these traps.”
A Call for Information
The RSPCA is now urging the public to come forward with any details that could shed light on who placed the traps or how they came to be there. It’s not yet clear whether the devices were laid in that exact location or transported from somewhere nearby by the animals themselves.
Anyone found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal under the Animal Welfare Act could face up to five years in prison or an unlimited fine.
The RSPCA continues to campaign against the use and sale of traps that cause harm and suffering. Their advice remains firm: traps, if used at all, should be covered and positioned with great care to avoid injuring unintended wildlife or pets.
Those dealing with pest problems are being reminded that there are humane alternatives available. The RSPCA website provides guidance on non-lethal methods for managing rodents and deterring foxes from properties.
How to Help
If you have any information relating to this incident, the RSPCA urges you to contact their appeals line at 0300 123 8018, referencing incident number 01498375.
This tragic case in Tooting serves as a stark reminder of the unintended consequences of using traps without proper caution. The call is clear: cruelty must not go unnoticed. Public help is now crucial — both to prevent further suffering and to ensure those responsible are held accountable. Will you be the voice that helps bring justice for these foxes?
