A wildlife charity in Somerset is calling for more volunteer drivers to assist in rescuing animals. Secret World Wildlife Rescue, located in East Huntspill near Highbridge, rescues up to 50 animals per day during its busy season, but it urgently needs additional volunteers to transport animals to and from the vet and help during rescue operations.
Wildlife volunteer and ambulance driver Tracy Abbot, who has been rescuing a variety of animals, including badgers, foxes, birds of prey, herons, and swans, shared her experience. “The most difficult to catch is a swan,” she said.
Having developed a love for wildlife while living in the Quantocks, Ms. Abbot always wanted to volunteer. “As soon as I took early retirement, I thought this is the time to do it,” she explained.
Due to high demand and a shortage of volunteers, Secret World had to temporarily reduce its catchment area last summer. The charity is still seeking volunteers who can commit to regular shifts.
Ms. Abbot emphasized the rewarding nature of animal rescue: “Once you’re drawn into animal rescue, you can get hooked. To watch them be released and see how energetic they are, you know you’ve done your job properly because they’re acting as they should, and that’s incredibly satisfying.”