Three fox cubs that were trapped between two houses in Leicester have been successfully released back into the wild after spending four months in rehabilitation. The cubs were initially rescued in April after residents heard their distressed cries coming from a narrow gap between the buildings.

Firefighters intervened by creating an opening in a brick wall to reach the animals, who had apparently become stuck after squeezing through the entrance and finding themselves trapped as the gap narrowed. Following the rescue, the cubs were taken to the Leicestershire Wildlife Hospital near Market Harborough for treatment and care.

One of the cubs required oxygen therapy delivered through a specially designed mask for small animals, reflecting the delicate condition in which the foxes were found. Over the course of their stay, the cubs were taught essential survival skills such as hunting for food and digging dens, preparing them for reintroduction to their natural environment.

Veterinary staff, including Amy Blower, expressed relief and satisfaction when the foxes were finally released at an undisclosed location. “It was quite an exhilarating feeling seeing them go back into the wild,” Blower said.

The successful rehabilitation highlights the efforts of local wildlife organizations and emergency responders in Leicester who worked together to save the young animals and ensure their safe return to the wild.