Appeal after hedgehog is found tied to a tree

A HEDGEHOG has been found tied to a tree by shoelaces that were used to form a “makeshift crucifix”.

The RSPCA was alerted to the incident after a member of the public found the wild animal on Brynglas Avenue, in Pontllanfraith, on Tuesday.

The male hedgehog was found with its belly facing outwards from the tree, constrained by shoe laces. His leg was bleeding, as was his mouth and nose.

He was sadly left unable to curl up.

For this reason it is feared the hedgehog would have “suffered immeasurably” during the incident.

RSPCA Inspector Izzi Hignell said: “We have been left utterly disgusted by this shocking incident, with a poor hedgehog cruelly tied to a tree by a makeshift crucifix of shoelaces.

“This hedgehog will have suffered immeasurably by this horrendous ordeal, and was found with a series of injuries – including facial problems, and a bleeding nose, mouth and leg.

“Sadly, he was left unable to curl up and is now being monitored very closely after such an horrendous ordeal.”

It is suspected the hedgehog may have been tied up on Monday evening.

He has since undergone an urgent veterinary assessment following the ordeal, and is now being closely monitored.

RSPCA Cymru is urging anyone with information to contact the charity’s inspectorate appeal line.

Ms Hignell added: “Treating wild animals this way is barbaric and wholly unacceptable.

“We believe this may have occurred on the evening of April 16.

“Anyone with information about how this shocking incident may have happened is urged to contact our inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018. Calls are treated in confidence.”