A deer has died from exhaustion after being chased by members of the public on Cleethorpes Beach, according to Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue.
The deer – one of several spotted on the beach on Monday – succumbed to stress and fatigue after being pursued by people, the charity said, describing the incident as “one that could have been avoided.”
In a statement shared on social media, Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue said they received multiple reports of 4–5 deer on the beach that day, which is not unusual due to the area’s proximity to nearby grassland.
The charity stressed that deer are strong swimmers and usually do not require intervention. “Unless a deer is collapsed or trapped, the best course of action is to leave them undisturbed and unpanicked,” a spokesperson said.
Unfortunately, several people were seen chasing the deer – possibly in an attempt to help – which only heightened their stress. This caused at least one animal to panic and become severely exhausted.
“Deer are extremely sensitive animals and can suffer from post-capture myopathy – a condition triggered by extreme stress, that can, unfortunately, be fatal,” the charity explained.
One distressed deer was eventually recovered later in the evening and taken for emergency treatment. Despite all efforts to save it, the animal died.
Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue is urging the public not to approach, chase, or attempt to capture deer. In most cases, the best approach is simply to let them leave the area on their own, which they typically do without issue.
Anyone concerned about a wildlife casualty can contact Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue by calling 01472472217.
Donations to support the charity’s vital work can be made here.
(Image: Cleethorpes Wildlife Rescue)
Part of the Gi Grimsby News team since 2020.