The RSPCA have issued a warning over squirrels getting trapped in bird feeders

The RSPCA have issued a warning to homeowners after two squirrels needed rescuing when they became trapped - in BIRD FEEDERS.

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The animal charity were called out to two separate incidents in the matter of 24 hours after the rodents became trapped in 'squirrel proof' bird feeders in the Midlands.

Inspectors were contacted by a concerned resident after a grey squirrel became stuck in a metal feeder in the garden of a property in Walsall.

The unfortunate animal had managed to get into the feeder to eat bird food but got his head stuck and jaw trapped around one of the wires when trying to make his way out.

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Sadly the squirrel was put to sleep after becoming injured from being stuck in the feeder overnight.

Just the day before, the RSPCA were called out to another squirrel which was stranded in a bird feeder in Tamworth, Staffs.

Great escape

But this time, as an inspector went to release the stricken animal it managed to free itself and run away.

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Inspector Beth Boyd, who dealt with both incidents, said: 'A concerned resident called the RSPCA after finding the squirrel trapped.

The grey squirrel is the most commonly-seen species in the UK

"When I arrived the poor squirrel was in a bad way - flies had laid eggs in his mouth overnight while he'd been trapped.

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'Looking at the bird feeder I am quite surprised it managed to get in as it does look squirrel-proof but often once they have fed they can struggle to get out.

'Just the day before I was called to another incident like this.

"In this case the feeder had larger holes which did make it appear to be squirrel-proof - but it still managed to get stuck.'

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Garden watch

The charity is now urging people to keep an eye on all wildlife feeders in their garden to make sure animals and birds do not get stuck or injured.

Inspector Boyd added: 'There are many types of '˜squirrel-proof' feeders available but it seems that a few could still can trap wildlife such as rodents.

'I would urge people who have them to check their feeders regularly to look out for any trapped wildlife and if you are going on holiday take them down.

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'Alternatively use non-squirrel proof feeders which may attract other wildlife but at least it will prevent animals like squirrels getting trapped.'

The RSPCA say if anyone encounters a squirrel caught in a bird feeder they should not try to free the animal themselves and instead call the charity on 0300 1234 999. More general advice on animal welfare can be found at the RSPCA website.

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