From an injured Ibis to an owl covered in oil, the SPCA Midrand team and Inspectors had their hands full with calls concerning animals in distress over the past week.
Midrand, South Africa (20 October 2025) – Last week was a rather WILD week for the SPCA Midrand Inspectors, kicking off Monday with a call concerning an injured Ibis that had suffered bite wounds.
Inspector Jerry Seemise and Kennel Assistant Daniel Musuko headed out and successfully managed to catch the distressed bird before transporting it safely to the incredible team at Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital.
Inspectors barely had time to catch their breath before the next wildlife call came in that very same morning, this time, a concerned resident discovered a hedgehog wandering around his garden.
“Fearing his dog might turn the little visitor into a chew toy, he quickly reached out to us for help. Inspectors Theo Mokgatle and Jeffrey Mathabela responded and safely scooped up the prickly little adventurer – with extra care, of course,” SPCA Midrand said.
The hedgehog was also transported to the team at Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital (JWVH), where he received a full check-up and is now safe, sound and under observation.
On Tuesday morning, the Inspectors received a call for assistance with an owl sitting on the windowsill of a toilet.
“The concerned resident noticed the bird wasn’t looking well and immediately reached out to us for help. Inspectors Mokgatle and Mathabela quickly made their way to the home. With gentle hands and calm precision, they safely caught the beautiful owl and transported it to the incredible team at Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital for treatment.”
The wild bird had been covered in oil and was thankfully found in time to get it the help it desperately needed.
“The owl is currently still in their ICU ward, but we remain hopeful for a full recovery. Thanks to the caring caller and our swift Inspectorate team, this owl is now safe and receiving the care it needs.”
In what unfolded as a truly wild start to the week, SPCA Midrand expressed its pride in the entire team’s compassion, dedication, and tireless commitment to protecting all sentient beings.
There is no denying that at the Midrand SPCA, all lives matter! A huge thank you goes to the kind callers who reached out, to JWVH for their ongoing support and care for wildlife, and to the dedicated team for the successful rescues!

