Hedgehog warning as cold weather hits Sussex – and how you can help

Sompting Wildlife Rescue said it is ‘particularly concerned’ about juvenile hedgehogs who haven’t built up enough fat reserves to survive hibernation.

The charity is asking people to look out for any spiky critters that are roughly the size of a small Cox's apple, weighing around 300g or less.

It said hedgehogs of this size are unlikely to survive the winter months without specialist help, while even slightly larger juveniles may still be underweight and in need of assistance.

A hedgehog spotted out and about during the daytime is also cause for concern, according to the charity. While they may appear perfectly active, they could be desperately searching for food, struggling with illness or already running out of energy.

A Sompting Wildlife Rescue spokesperson said: “If you find a very small hedgehog, or one out during the day in cold weather, please seek advice promptly.

“If it needs rescuing, use gloves to place it in a secure, ventilated box with a towel and a wrapped warm hot water bottle, leaving space to move away from the heat.

“Contact your local wildlife rescue for further advice. Please don't simply leave a struggling hedgehog outside overnight.

“For healthy hedgehogs visiting your garden after dark, continue providing suitable food and fresh water to help them build their reserves.

“A little help now could make all the difference to their survival this winter.”

If you're concerned about a hedgehog, you can contact the charity via Whatsapp on 07576 123999.

Sompting Wildlife Rescue recently launched a fundraiser to cover the cost of more than three months of wildlife rescues.

For more information, and to donate, visit: www.justgiving.com/campaign/100-days-of-wildlife-rescue.