Construction workers at the new Bushland High School site in Bushland, Texas, were finishing up for the day when an unexpected sound caught their attention.
From beneath a large tarp, they heard faint rustling. At first, all they could see was a small shadow shifting under the cover. Unsure what kind of animal might be hiding there, they hesitated to approach.
Still, they knew they couldn’t ignore it. Wanting to ensure the animal’s safety, the workers contacted the Wild West Wildlife Rehabilitation Center for help.
Within minutes, rescuers were on their way.
A Swift Rescue
Stephanie Brady, executive director of Wild West Wildlife, and her assistant quickly arrived at the construction site.
With years of experience in wildlife rescue, it didn’t take long for them to identify the mysterious creature hiding beneath the tarp.
It was a gray fox, likely seeking shelter from the weather or noise.
Brady and her team wasted no time. Armed with a catchpole, a net, and thick protective gloves, they carefully planned their approach.
“I was thinking it was going to be a foot chase,” Brady told The Dodo. “I knew I had one chance to grab him.”
Luckily, the tarp helped more than expected. It limited the fox’s movement just enough for Brady to safely catch him. With a quick motion, she guided him into the waiting net.
Moments later, the frightened animal was safely contained and ready for transport.
A Second Chance At Freedom
The fox was understandably nervous after his ordeal. He wanted nothing more than to return to the wild, but first, he needed care.
“We brought him into care to treat for fleas, deworm, and keep warm,” the team shared in a Facebook post. “It is always best to send them out healthier, than how they came in.”
The rescue team monitored him closely over the next few days. Though restless, the fox slowly regained strength and calm under their care. His sharp eyes and steady movements soon showed he was ready to go home.
When the weather improved, Brady and her team transported him back near the area where he had first been found. The moment the kennel door opened, the fox sprinted toward the open fields, vanishing into the wild.
Watching him disappear into the distance, Brady smiled, confident he would thrive once more.
“He has a wonderful prognosis,” she said.
Thanks to the compassion of the construction workers and the dedication of the Wild West Wildlife team, one small life was saved that day. What began as an ordinary work shift turned into an extraordinary rescue that gave a fox a new lease on life.