A deer became dangerously tangled in sports equipment in Monmouth County, prompting a rescue and a warning from animal welfare officials.
Officers with the Tinton Falls Police Department responded to the scene and safely freed the distressed deer from a soccer net.
Following the rescue, the Associated Humane Societies is urging residents, coaches and sports teams to remove or roll up soccer nets when games are over.
Officials say fine-mesh sports netting can be difficult for wildlife to see, especially during dawn, dusk and nighttime hours.
As a result, deer and other animals can become trapped, risking serious injury or death.
Animal welfare advocates say preventing these incidents requires only a small effort.
They recommend taking down or securing portable soccer nets at the end of the day to help keep local wildlife safe.
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