Construction workers were wrapping up their duties at the new Bushland High School site in Bushland, Texas. It seemed like just another ordinary workday, until an unusual sound caught their attention.
They noticed a faint rustling coming from beneath a tarp nearby. At first glance, they only saw the outline of a small shadow moving under the cover. Uncertain of what kind of animal was hiding there, they hesitated to get closer.
Still, the workers knew they couldn’t just leave the poor creature. That’s when they decided to call the Wild West Wildlife Rehabilitation Center for help.
Within minutes, rescuers were on the scene.
Saved On Time
Stephanie Brady, executive director of Wild West Wildlife, and her assistant quickly arrived at the construction site. With years of experience handling wildlife, it didn’t take long for them to identify the mysterious figure under the tarp.
It turned out to be a gray fox, likely seeking shelter.
Brady and her colleague wasted no time. Equipped with a catchpole, a net, and thick welding gloves, they prepared for what could have been a challenging rescue.
“I was thinking it was going to be a foot chase,” Brady told The Dodo. “I knew I had one chance to grab him.”
To their relief, the tarp itself worked in their favor. It restricted the fox’s movement just enough, allowing Brady to safely secure him. With one swift motion, she managed to direct him into the waiting net.
Moments later, the little fox was safely in their care.
Safely Brought Home
Naturally, the fox wasn’t too thrilled about being surrounded by humans. Nervous and restless, he wanted nothing more than to return to his wild home. But before that could happen, Brady and her team knew he needed proper care.
“We brought him into care to treat for fleas, deworm, and keep warm,” the team explained in a Facebook post. “It is always best to send them out healthier, than how they came in.”
After his treatment, the fox spent a short time recovering at the rescue center. Though he tolerated his temporary stay, it was clear in his eyes that he longed for freedom.
Finally, as the temperatures warmed up a few days later, the rescuers decided it was time to let him go. They brought him back close to where he had been found, and as soon as the kennel door opened, he bolted into the wild without hesitation.
Watching him disappear into the open fields, Brady was confident he would thrive.
“He has a wonderful prognosis,” she said.
Thanks to the quick action of both the construction workers and the wildlife team, a life was saved that day. Instead of facing the inevitable alone under a tarp, this fox now has a second chance to roam free and live the life he was meant to.