Entangled Deer in Closter Highlights Ongoing Wildlife Hazards in Bergen County
photo courtesy of DK
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Closter NJ, A recent incident in Closter, New Jersey, has brought attention to a recurring hazard facing suburban wildlife: sports netting entanglements. Residents spotted a buck with remnants of what appeared to be tennis or volleyball netting wrapped around its antlers and body.
While the deer was still mobile and able to feed, local efforts to secure help highlighted the challenges homeowners face when encountering distressed wildlife in Bergen County.
The Reality of Entangled Wildlife in Suburban New Jersey
Suburban developments intersecting with white-tailed deer habitats mean encounters with man-made obstacles are increasingly common. Deer regularly wander into backyards and public spaces where everyday items pose unexpected risks:
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Sports Nets & Fencing: Unattended soccer goals, tennis nets, volleyball setups, and garden mesh are the leading cause of antler and limb entanglements.
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Wells & Window Wells: Open window wells or unsealed garden pits can trap fawns and adult deer, requiring emergency extraction.
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Decorative Lighting & Lawn Ornaments: During the autumn and winter months, holiday lights and yard decorations frequently snag in deer antlers.
Who to Call: Local Protocol vs. Wildlife Rescuers
When a deer becomes trapped or entangled, response options vary depending on the severity of the situation and local jurisdiction:
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Municipal & County Authorities: Local police departments and county animal control are often the first point of contact. However, if an animal is not severely incapacitated, standard response protocols may be limited.
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State Wildlife Agencies: The NJ Division of Fish & Wildlife handles broader wildlife management issues and can advise on whether licensed wildlife rehabbers or biologists can intervene.
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Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitators: Specialized non-profit rescue organizations trained in wildlife immobilization can sometimes tranquilize and free entangled animals safely when feasible.
How Residents Can Prevent Wildlife Entanglements
Homeowners can take simple, proactive steps to keep local wildlife safe:
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Take Down Seasonal Nets: Store volleyball, badminton, and soccer nets inside when not in active use.
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Tie Up Garden Mesh: Secure loose netting on garden beds and ensure mesh is drawn taut so animals cannot easily tangle their hooves or antlers.
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Cover Window Wells: Install sturdy covers over open basement window wells and deep pits.
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Report Immediately: If you see a trapped animal in immediate distress, contact local non-emergency police dispatch or the state wildlife hotline promptly.
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Category Tags: Bergen County News, NJ Wildlife, Community Alerts, Closter NJ, Suburban Wildlife Safety
