Page 28 - 367700 LP248929 In and Around Magazine 52pp A5 (October 2022)

Hedgehogs
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Hedgehogs are some of our most recognisable wildlife. However there are a number of ways they can get into trouble at this time of year. Hedgehogs are nocturnal and only come out at night. Generally, any hedgehog out during the day is in trouble and will need to be taken to a wildlife vet or rescue centre.
If you find an injured hedgehog scoop it up with both hands, wearing thick gardening gloves. Put it into a cardboard box lined with newspaper and give a small towel for it to hide under. You can offer it a small amount of dog or cat food in a shallow bowl, plus a non-tip dish of fresh water. DO NOT GIVE HEDGEHOGS MILK!
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The Big Three Problems
1) Strimmer injuries – please be careful
if strimming the edges of gardens etc and check for hedgehogs before starting. Leg and nose injuries can often be fatal for hedgehogs as they struggle to find food.
2) Injuries from garden tools – check compost heaps and leaf piles carefully before forking them over in case hedgehogs have taken up residence.
3) Bonfires – don’t light a bonfire without checking it for hedgehogs first.
Hibernation
Typically, hedgehogs hibernate from late December until late March. It is important they are not disturbed during this time, as this causes them to use valuable body fat. If you do accidentally disturb a hibernation nest, cover it back over with a thick layer of dry leaves and perhaps leave some food and water nearby.
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