A poignant photograph of a hunt saboteur carrying an injured fox from the North Down Hunt has prompted calls for a ban.
The photograph has led to thousands of comments on social media from people congratulating the hunt saboteurs on the valuable work they carry out, and condemning the people involved in hunting.
The group was able to capture the injured fox yesterday and transport it to the veterinary surgery for pain relief and medical treatment. The fox is now in the care of a person who specialises in rehabilitating wildlife.
The incident has led to condemnation of hunting and praise for the ‘compassion’ shown by the volunteers.
“Today we set off to sab the North Down Hunt in the Greyabby Estate – an estate notorious for its hunting, not only on horse back but also shooting, and we suspect rife with snares as well.
“We set off ahead of the hunt, but doubled back when the hunt set off in a different direction – this turned out to be the most fortunate stroke of luck for one poorly creature.
“In a field up from where the horses and hounds had set off was a wounded and very poorly fox – injuries to be confirmed,” reads the social media post.
“This fox without a doubt would have suffered the most unimaginable death if we hadn’t intervened and allow this hunt to murder.”
The post has been flooded with messages:
Awesome work many thanks.
Thank god for these brave people xxx.
What a wonderful rescue under the barbaric hunt’s noses. Without you there’d be no hope for our little reds . We love you for all the love and compassion you show by being there whatever . We know how hard it is for you having to see the terrible sights you see . We know the abuse you have to put up with but you never give up which is why we love and respect you so very much. Keep safe always and so very well done . I hope the beautiful little one recovers soon . Thank you xx.
Great, even the fox looks like it knows it’s safe.
Great work by our Comrades up North✊ https://t.co/wsg59lIiHf
— Connacht Hunt Saboteurs (@ConnHuntSabs) February 2, 2019
There was a large turn out of protesters on New Year’s Day for the drag hunt in Crawfordsburn.
Great turnout at Crawfordsburn protesting the North Down Hunt. #northdownhunt #greenpartyni #ForFoxSake pic.twitter.com/D3cRi3s8BC
— Cllr Barry McKee (@Barry_ndgreen) January 1, 2019