‘Magnificent seven’ hedgehogs head back to the wild

The ‘magnificent’ seven were rescued by members of the public at the start of the winter and taken to Horsham charity Care for the Wild. They were ‘autumn’ juveniles, meaning they were found alone and underweight when they should have been hibernating.

Care for the Wild wildlife carer Tarnya Knight said: “They were all little fellas and they would never have made it through the winter on their own. We’ve nursed them through the cold months, inside at first then in outdoor hutches.

“Not all hedgehogs can be released into the wild, but these guys will be fine. Where we can, we’ll take them back to where they were found, otherwise they’ll go to safe release sites. We’d like to thank the people who brought these hogs to us, and to all of the Care for the Wild supporters who helped pay for their food!”

Care for the Wild is always looking for safe release sites for hedgehogs, or permanent homes for those that cannot return to the wild. A safe place is where other hedgehogs may be found – showing that it’s clear of predators – and without poisons such as slug pellets or pesticides. Gardens with ponds covered in netting are also unsuitable.

If you can help, please email [email protected] or call Tarnya on 01403 249832.

Care for the Wild is a charity based in Sussex dedicated to the protection of wildlife in the UK and abroad.

For more information or if you would like to support their work visit www.careforthewild.com.