Hedgehogs are now classed as vulnerable to extinction in the UK and need our help more than ever. Not only can we help by providing supplementary feeding and creating hedgehog friendly spaces, but knowing when to assist a hedgehog in need is also equally important!
When to step in and help:
🦔 The hedgehog is outside during the day AND appears sluggish and wobbly. Hedgehogs will occasionally wake during the day for food and hydration, but they’ll be moving quickly.
🦔 It is covered in flies
🦔 You hear laboured breathing
🦔 A hedgehog with an injury; broken bones, open wounds or missing appendages requires urgent attention and should be taken to your closest vet for Wildlife First Aid.
🦔 It is in immediate danger. In some cases the hedgehog can be moved to safety and left alone, but always call a wildlife rescue first before leaving the hedgehog.
Should you need to pick up a hedgehog, wear a pair of gardening gloves or use an old towel to protect your hands:
🦔 Gently scoop the hedgehog up and place them in a cardboard box.
🦔 Keep the hedgehog warm by placing a small towel or torn up newspaper over the hedgehog. Avoid using dusty material in the box, such as sawdust.
🦔 Do not feed the hedgehog food unless advised, offer water only in a shallow dish.
🦔 Take it to your closest wildlife rescue centre or vet for treatment, make sure you phone ahead first in case they are not able to take it.
If you would like to support our work rehabilitating sick, injured and orphan hedgehogs, please consider becoming a regular supporter! We receive no statutory funding so rely completely on the generosity of our kind supporters. Every donation we receive makes a huge difference!
