United States - October 10, 2024

In what can only be described as a series of daring wildlife rescues, District Wildlife Manager Cody Rarick has once again demonstrated his commitment to saving wildlife, this time freeing not one, but three mule deer from life-threatening entrapments in Archuleta County.

Just weeks after a widely shared story of Rarick's successful effort in liberating a mule deer from a bucket, the compassionate officer has stepped up to assist two more of these majestic animals. The first rescue was particularly harrowing, where a mule deer doe found itself with its front hooves entangled in what appeared to be a heavy piece of plastic, possibly a bicycle pedal. This unfortunate deer was immobilized, unable to move, and facing certain death if not for Rarick's intervention.

After a delicate operation to free the deer, Rarick's work didn't end there. He kept a vigilant watch over the recovering doe, ensuring her safety from further threats, including protecting her from local dogs while she regained her strength. Miraculously, after a few days, the doe was back on her feet and soon rejoined her herd, a testament to both nature's resilience and Rarick's dedicated care.

The second rescue was no less dramatic. A mule deer had a tomato cage or similar garden equipment wrapped around its torso, a common yet perilous predicament for urban wildlife. Employing his expertise, Rarick darted the deer to safely remove the object without causing undue stress or injury. Once freed, the deer was quickly administered a reversal drug, allowing it to stand and eventually return to the wild.