Leave it to the experts, district councillor told after chaotic deer rescue

A district councillor in Tai Po, Hong Kong, Chan Siu-keen, sparked controversy after attempting to rescue a trapped barking deer by forcefully pulling its rear legs, causing the animal to struggle. The incident was captured on video and shared on social media, drawing criticism from wildlife experts and social media users. Gary Ades, head of fauna conservation at Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden, advised that the rescue method used by Chan and two other men was not recommended, as barking deer can be easily frightened and may suffer a heart attack from shock.

Ades also warned that the trio could be in breach of the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance by rescuing the deer themselves. Although Chan defended his approach, emphasizing the animal's bleeding and injury, the expert urged that professionals should be consulted for a full assessment of injuries and appropriate handling of the animal.

Brief written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.