A pregnant hedgehog has died after reportedly being "kicked around like a football" in West Yorkshire, leading to an appeal from Castleford Hedgehog Rescue. The charity stated it took the hedgehog in on Friday night after being informed it had been attacked by a group of boys in Sharlston Common.
Beth Campsill from the charity described the situation as "heartbreaking" and among the worst cases of animal cruelty she had witnessed in 16 years. The hedgehog succumbed to her injuries on Saturday night, and her unborn litter could not be saved.
The young mammal, believed to be two to three years old, initially showed signs of recovery after receiving care at the centre. However, the extent of her injuries ultimately proved fatal. Castleford Hedgehog Rescue was told that a group of six boys, aged between nine and 13, had attacked the hedgehog on Weeland Avenue.
The rescue centre is urging anyone with information or footage relating to the incident to contact them, so it can be shared with the police. West Yorkshire Police has been contacted for comment.