What should you do if you find a dead American mink?

Roadkill is a common sight on roads across Lancashire - but what should you do if you happen across a dead animal?
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A former college lecturer from Chorley found himself in that situation during a stroll around Heapey Reservoir on the outskirts of the town.

He initially thought the creature was a dead cat but on closer inspection discovered it was an American mink.

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The man, who did not want to be named, took the deceased mammal home, eventually giving it a burial in a nearby patch of land.

A man from Chorley found a dead American mink at Heapey ReservoirA man from Chorley found a dead American mink at Heapey Reservoir
A man from Chorley found a dead American mink at Heapey Reservoir

But what should you do if you come across a dead animal?

The Wildlife Trust, an organisation which campaigns on wildlife issues, says there specific guidelines and rules for what to do.

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In the case of road traffic accidents where an animal has been killed or injured, you must report the incident to the police if it involves a dog, sheep, pig, goat, cattle, donkey or horse.

You must also report the incident within 24 hours.

If you find a dead animal on the road, pavement, or in another open public space, you should tell your local council.

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This includes domestic pets and wild animals like badgers and foxes. A dead animal found on private property should be reported to the owner of the land.

If you suspect a wildlife crime has been committed, then yoyuld should report the incident to the RSPCA.

Meanwhile, the RSCPA recommends anyone who finds a dead animal on a major A road or motorway in England or Wales should report it to the Highways Agency so arrangements can be made for the animal to be safely removed.