Recently, a white-tailed buck became trapped approximately 12 feet below ground in an abandoned, dried-up well in northern New Jersey. The animal remained there until police, firefighters, and wildlife officials could remove it.
The rescue took place Friday, July 31, in Hopatcong Borough. The police department’s Humane Law Enforcement Officer coordinated the response with New Jersey Fish & Wildlife.
Several agencies sent people to the scene. The group included wildlife biologists, a conservation officer, a local police officer, and members of the Hopatcong Fire Department.
The buck was removed without injury and released back into the wild. Police later warned property owners that uncovered wells and holes can endanger both animals and people.
Wildlife Officials Helped Remove the Buck
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Hopatcong Police credited Senior Biologist Ryan Ferraro and Wildlife Control Technician Christian Nitko with New Jersey Fish & Wildlife’s Wildlife Control Unit for helping with the rescue.
Patrolman Barnor from the Hopatcong Police Department and Conservation Officer Della Vella from New Jersey Fish & Wildlife Enforcement also responded. Members of the Hopatcong Fire Department provided additional assistance.
According to northwest New Jersey radio station WRNJ, the team safely removed the buck before returning it to its natural habitat. The police department thanked the responders for their quick work and cooperation. Photos from the operation were later shared on the department’s Facebook page.
Police Warned Property Owners About Similar Hazards
Police used the rescue to remind residents to inspect their properties for potentially dangerous openings. Old wells, uncovered holes, and abandoned structures can be difficult to notice when hidden by plants or debris.
Property owners were encouraged to secure or repair anything that could trap wildlife or injure a person. The department said that addressing those hazards may prevent similar emergencies.
The deer escaped without any reported injuries. A fall from that height, however, could have had a much different outcome.