Wildlife lovers have been left heartbroken after a fox that was found shot near a country park died despite efforts to save the animal.
The fox was discovered with an eye injury on a residential estate near the Rising Sun Country Park, in Benton, North Tyneside, on Thursday and Blyth Wildlife Rescue was called to help.
After being taken to a vet, the animal was found to have been shot and X-rays showed evidence of a pellet lodged behind the eye socket.
However, on Friday night, the team shared news that the fox had not survived after an operation.
A spokesperson said: "Unfortunately the news we have to share is not the news we hoped to be sharing this evening.
"The fox remained stable overnight, but showed no signs of improvement. With this in mind, we made a plan with our vets to proceed with operating, to investigate any further damage, clean out the eye socket and remove the lodged pellet.
"The fox made it through surgery alive, but unfortunately passed away whilst recovering from the anaesthetic.
"We are, understandably, devastated by this outcome, but comfortable in the knowledge that we did everything we could to give her the best chance.
"As a charity, we are shocked and dismayed that anyone would harm a fox in such a way and we would ask that supporters remain vigilant and report any injured foxes to us as soon as possible."
The incident, which was shared on social media channels, shocked scores of people across the region and many said the animal's death was "devastating".
One wrote on Facebook: "Heartbreaking news, people are so cruel. You all tried your best to save her. I don’t know how anyone can hurt them I absolutely love them they are so majestic."
Another added: "Very sad to read this and poor fox, no animal should have to suffer like this. Thank you to BVR and the vets for trying their best."
"Absolutely heartbreaking," said another. "How can any decent human do this."
Anyone wishing to support Blyth Wildlife Rescue can do so by texting “BLYTHWILDLIFE” followed by £2 / £5 / £10/£20 to 70085. More information can be found here.
