Wildlife Team Rescues Deer and Stowaway Mouse in One Trip

When wildlife rescuers raced to free a trapped deer in East Sussex, they never expected their ambulance would carry an unexpected passenger.

The East Sussex Wildlife Rescue & Ambulance Service team was speeding toward Nutley to help a deer caught in fencing when crew members spotted movement on their windscreen. A tiny mouse had hitched a ride on the outside of their specialist ambulance.

The rescuers quickly pulled over and gently captured the mouse, securing it in a small carrier before continuing their emergency mission. The little stowaway would get the same level of care as the much larger deer waiting for help.

When the five-person Deer Disentanglement Team arrived at the scene, they used specialist handling techniques to free the trapped deer. Years of training allowed them to work calmly and efficiently, minimizing stress for the frightened animal and giving it the best chance at a full recovery.

Both rescues succeeded. The mouse and the deer were safe, thanks to a team that treats every animal with equal importance.

Sunny's Take

This double rescue perfectly captures what makes wildlife rehabilitation so special. The crew could have ignored the mouse or viewed it as a distraction from the "real" emergency. Instead, they recognized that both animals deserved help, regardless of size or species.

"No animal is too big or too small for our team," a WRAS spokesperson said. "Every rescue matters, and our staff and volunteers work tirelessly to give local wildlife the help it deserves."

The incident showcases the incredible range of situations these rescue teams handle daily. One moment they're preparing specialized equipment for a large deer disentanglement. The next, they're caring for a creature small enough to sit in the palm of your hand.

With demand for wildlife assistance rising across Sussex, WRAS is seeking support to keep their ambulances running and rescue teams equipped. Their work ensures that whether you're a deer in distress or a mouse in the wrong place, help is just a phone call away.

Sometimes the smallest passengers make the biggest impression.