Hedgehogs in need of rescue
While we want everyone to know what to do if a hedgehog needs rescuing so they can receive timely care it is important to note that not every hedgehog needs rescue.
Hedgehogs are wild animals and we should only intervene when absolutely necessary.
This guide will help you determine if the animal needs rescuing and when to leave well alone. If you are ever in any doubt please contact us or the BHPS to seek further advice.
What are the signs to look out for?
A hedgehog showing signs of the following is likely to be in need of assistance:
- ࠀCollapsed or lethargic
- ࠀLaying out in the open (awake or asleep)
- ࠀWobbling or staggering when moving
- ࠀBeing bothered by flies or attracting the interest of birds
- ࠀNot walking correctly / dragging a limb
- ࠀSignificant loss of spines
- ࠀHas a large number of ticks (15+) or clusters of ticks, especially if around the face
- ࠀHas clusters of fly eggs – this is called flystrike
- ࠀHeard squealing or crying out
- ࠀAppears to have laboured breathing or a loud cough
- ࠀHas been injured or is showing signs of injury
- ࠀHas been caught in netting or been trapped
- ࠀHas been attacked or mouthed / picked up by a dog
Out in the day
A hedgehog seen out in the day, with or without signs of injury, should always be a cause for concern.
Generally, a hedgehog out in the day is probably unwell and may be in need of rescue however there are a few exceptions. If the hedgehog is moving with purpose or collecting possible nesting material it may actually be a nesting or nursing female and should be left alone.
Hedgehogs are crepuscular as well as nocturnal. This means they will come out at dawn and dusk and may be seen in the early evening or morning without cause for concern.
Hoglets
Hoglets will live with their mother in the nest and should not be seen out alone. If a hoglet is seen out on its own please call us, the BHPS or another rescue for advice immediately.
It is likely that there are other hoglets in the area and young animals alone are very vulnerable, they can quickly become dehydrated and hypothermic.
It is important to monitor the area for other hoglets or mum returning while you seek further advice.
IMPORTANT MESSAGE
If we are able to admit the hedgehog into our care we will always ask you to drive it to us in the village of Market Overton.
We have very little spare time between working and administering to the animals in our care. If you cannot drive across to us please ask someone such as friends, family, neighbours if they can do so on your behalf.
It is important that you do not bring a hedgehog to the rescue unless we have asked you to do so. It may be more appropriate that the hedgehog is taken straight to a veterinary surgery; we may not be here or we may be full and unable to take a new admission.
Other support
If we cannot admit the hedgehog or you want immediate advice please call the British Hedgehog Preseveration Society or use the directory of rescues that can be found at helpwildlilfe.co.uk to find another wildlife or hedgehog rescue in the area.
