Hedgehog rescue centres across the UK are reporting a significant rise in malnourished animals, with more expected as winter approaches. The recent summer heat and drought conditions have made it challenging for hedgehogs, particularly young hoglets, to find natural prey such as slugs and earthworms.
Tracey Boden, who runs Hedgehog Rescue in Chipping Sodbury, near Bristol, stated that she has never seen the situation so severe in her 13 years at the centre. The centre is currently caring for 45 hedgehogs, exceeding its usual capacity of 35, and is seeking more volunteers and donations.
The RSPCA West Hatch in Somerset has also observed an increase, with wildlife supervisor Tina Huntington reporting a 22% rise in hedgehog admissions this summer compared to previous years. The centre has issued an urgent plea for shredded paper for bedding.
Fay Vess, CEO at the British Hedgehog Preservation Society, noted that this period is typically busy for rescues due to many baby hedgehogs needing help to survive hibernation. Vess suggested that people with gardens can assist by leaving leaf piles undisturbed and providing water bowls. Warning signs that a hedgehog needs help include being out during the day, wobbling, or struggling to walk properly.