Shocking wildlife toll revealed as heroes Jan and Shantel fight daily to save Havering’s animals

The Harold Hill Deer Aid wildlife incident summary has revealed the sheer scale of what is happening to our wildlife, and the figures are nothing short of sobering. Behind every number is an animal, and behind every response are volunteers working tirelessly to save lives.

Deer incidents remain one of the most significant concerns. There were 21 road traffic accidents involving deer, with 13 having to be put to sleep due to the severity of their injuries. Seven survived or were not located, five were dead on arrival and four were recorded as deceased with unknown status. Beyond road collisions, 14 deer were injured or monitored in non road incidents, three were tangled and released, and one sadly died after becoming tangled.

Among the most distressing cases, one deer was believed to have been miss shot by a stalker and left alive. It was later seen by a member of the public in a severely distressed condition and was found deceased in a stream the following day. Two deer were also attacked by dogs and had to be put to sleep.

Other wildlife continues to be impacted. Two foxes were killed in road traffic incidents, while a badger sett has been significantly damaged and remains under investigation. One cat was taken to rescue and two were killed on the roads.

Fox incidents alone show the pressure on rescue services. Eight cubs were taken to South Essex Wildlife Hospital, five were found deceased, two had become tangled and eight more were orphaned, injured or lost. Adult foxes also required intervention, with six taken to vets or the hospital and 12 monitored while sick or injured.

Hedgehogs and birds were also among those needing help. One hedgehog was dead on arrival and three were taken for treatment. Bird rescues included ducklings, a pheasant, a robin and a domestic bird, alongside multiple calls for advice and assistance from the public.

These incidents were recorded across a wide area including Romford, Hornchurch, Cranham, Dagenham, Ilford, Ingatestone and far beyond, showing that this is not just a local issue but a widespread and growing problem.

Harold Hill Deer Aid continue to do a truly life saving job. People like Jan and Shantel are quite simply worth their weight in gold. Every single day they are out there responding to calls, saving lives, and showing the community how we should be living side by side with our wildlife. Their dedication, compassion and relentless commitment do not go unnoticed. They step in when others will not, often dealing with the most distressing situations, and they do so with complete care and compassion.

For many, wildlife is still seen as nothing more than a nuisance. But for most of us, it is a stark reminder that they were here first. We are the ones taking their land, building over green spaces and cutting down trees, destroying habitats at an alarming rate. Overdevelopment is rife and our wildlife is being displaced, forced into roads and residential areas where the risks are far greater.

These figures show just how vital the work of Harold Hill Deer Aid and other rescue groups is, not just across Havering but right across the region. Supported by organisations such as South Essex Wildlife Hospital, local veterinary practices, the Harlow Badger Group and local policing teams, it is a true community effort.

The message is clear. Without these volunteers, the situation would be far worse. Their work is not just important, it is essential. Well done Jan and Shantel-you are truly amazing.

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