Keep a sharp eye out for hoglets
Prickly pals are being cared for at Fishcross
This group of tiny orphaned hoglets are being cared for at Fishcross rescue centre with charity workers urging residents across Stirling to keep a close eye on hedgehogs.
Workers at the Scottish SPCA’S National Wildlife Rescue Centre have been looking after the babies who came into their care after being separated from their mother.
They say that this is the time of year when more litters are likely to be born and want local people to look out for signs that the garden visitors might need help.
Hedgehogs out during the day, young on their own or disturbed nests are signs that the animals are in distress.
Last year, the SSPCA saw a record number of hedgehog admissions to its dedicated wildlife hospital in Alloa.
Almost 2,500 hedgehogs were cared for over the year and in September and November 2019, almost 1,000 hedgehogs arrived.
Steven Gray, wildlife manager said: “The numbers we saw last year were unprecedented. Due to the time of year when many hedgehogs arrived, they didn’t increase their body mass enough to survive hibernating in the wild so they had to stay with us until spring.
“We want to keep young wildlife with their parents where possible so people should only call us if they are certain the animal needs our help.
“Generally speaking, if people spot a hedgehog out during the day then we would advise people to contact us but around birthing time, adult hedgehogs might just be moving from one nesting site to another. Any adult that looks in good body condition is likely to be doing this and they do not need our help.
“If a hoglet or young hedgehog is on its own or if a hedgehog looks thin or wobbly then people should contact our animal helpline.”
Mr Gray added: “Hedgehog mums can get very stressed and in some cases may kill or eat her offspring if she is in distress.
“We would ask people to be mindful of this and try to cause as little upset as possible. If you are aware of a nest in your garden, try not to continuously check it as this causes the mother a great deal of stress each time.”
The rescue centre has helped hedgehogs who have been injured by strimmers or whose nests have been disturbed by gardeners.
Mr Gray added: “We would ask that people are careful when in their gardens and to check for wildlife in long grass, leaf litter and other areas before beginning any work.
“If a hedgehog nest is disturbed then try and relocate it as close to the original location as possible. Removing a mother hedgehog is always a last resort when relocating is not possible.”
The charity says that as demand to help the animals rises, resources can be overwhelmed. They are appealing for help to cover the costs of essential items.
Donations can be handed in to the centre located at Fishcross, FK10 3AN. Due to contamination risks, used soft materials such as towels and bedding cannot be accepted at this time.
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The SSPCA helpline number is 03000 999 999.
People should only call us if they are certain the animal needs our help