If a hedgehog is still then it needs your help

PEOPLE need to keep an eye out for hedgehogs in need of help.

Hedgehogs are nocturnal so should not normally be out in the daylight. There are some exceptions to that rule, for example if a nest has been disturbed and the hedgehog is relocating, or a mum is taking a break from the nest.

However, these hedgehogs would be moving quickly ‘with purpose.’

We frequently get calls from members of the public who have been watching a hedgehog that’s been laying still in their garden for days. By the time we get the call and the person gets the hedgehog to rescue, it’s often too late.

Hedgehogs don’t sunbathe! If you see a hedgehog laying still in the open or with flies round it, or if it’s struggling to walk properly, it is in urgent need of rescue.

Use gardening gloves or an old towel to collect the animal, placing it inside a high sided cardboard or plastic box with the towel in the bottom for it to hide under. Bring the box indoors away from flies. If the hedgehog isn’t bleeding, offering a warm wrapped hot water bottle is good first aid, but do make sure there is room for it to get off if it gets too warm and ensure the bottle is not allowed to go cold.

Offer some meaty cat or dog food and water but don’t force feed it.

Once you’ve done that, call a local hedgehog rescue centre if you know of one, or the British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS) on 01584 890801 for further advice and local contacts.

Hoglets don’t usually come in ones. If a hoglet it is trouble, its brothers and sisters may need help too, so do look around for others.

Acting quickly could literally mean the difference between life and death, if in doubt, please always call and check as soon as possible.

For those interested in helping hedgehogs or encouraging them into their gardens, there is a wealth of information on the society website at britishhedgehogs.org.uk Fay Vass

BHPS chief executive