Badger is rescued by the RSPCA after falling down lime kiln in Shilbottle

The mammal had tumbled ten ft, round three metres, into the pit and was curled up asleep when she was noticed by a passing walker.

RSPCA animal rescue officer David Dawson, who in February final yr attended an similar job in the identical location, used a ladder to climb into the kiln and a grasper and transportable kennel to catch her after the charity was contacted for help.

Described as ‘extremely feisty,’ she was checked over by the officer earlier than being launched unhurt following the rescue on March 6.

Both incidents concerned an grownup feminine badger, though it’s not identified if it was the identical animal.

“It was a bit of a surprise to be called back to the Shilbottle kiln to free another trapped badger,” stated David.

“Like before, this one appears to have walked into thin air.

“Again, she was very lucky to have been spotted by a passer by amongst all the debris down there and not to have sustained any injuries as it’s quite a long way down.”

He added: “We have no way of knowing how long she might have been trapped, although when I arrived she was curled up in a ball having a little snooze.

“She was certainly feisty enough after I’d caught her and she made it very clear that she wanted to be out of the kennel as quickly as possible and on her way.

“It’s a tricky one because without putting some sort of cover over the top, which may not be feasible with a structure like this, it’s difficult to prevent animals from taking an unexpected tumble.

“Nevertheless, I’m really pleased to have been able to release both badgers unharmed, and again we’d like to thank the people who reported their plight to us.”

If you encounter a wild animal you assume wants the RSPCA’s assist go to its web site for data and recommendation.

This yr the RSPCA celebrates its two hundredth birthday. To discover out how one can become involved go to www.rspca.org.uk/200.