Hedgehog rescue charities across the UK are reporting a significant surge in admissions, particularly young hoglets, as the country experiences extended periods of hot weather. Holderness Hedgehog Hospital, for instance, currently cares for 86 animals, a number described as unprecedented for this time of year by charity trustee Cath Novis.
Ms Novis attributes this alarming increase primarily to the recent heatwave. She explained that the ground becomes excessively hard during prolonged dry spells, making it extremely difficult for hedgehogs to dig for their natural food sources such as worms and insects. This scarcity of food, combined with a lack of available water due to high temperatures, creates immense pressure on mother hedgehogs.
These challenging conditions often lead to a difficult decision for mother hedgehogs: self-preservation. Ms Novis stated that mothers may abandon their nests and hoglets in a desperate attempt to find sustenance and water for themselves. This results in vulnerable young hedgehogs being left alone, consequently leading to the inundation of rescue centres.
The charity provides crucial care for these rescued animals, which includes treating them for common issues like fleas and internal parasites, providing essential nutrition, and then weaning them until they are strong enough to be released. The public plays a vital role in supporting these efforts, not only by bringing in distressed animals but also by taking preventative measures.
Ms Novis urged the public to place out shallow dishes of water in their gardens, not just for hedgehogs but for all local wildlife, especially during hot weather. She also stressed the importance of contacting local rescue centres immediately if a hedgehog is seen out during daylight hours or appears injured, as "every second counts" for these fragile creatures.