[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]If you find an ill or injured hedgehog it will probably be suffering from hypothermia, even in summer.
Never try and force feed a hedgehog and do not put down food or water for any hog until it is has warmed up and is active again as it will be unable to swallow or digest.
Place it on a hot (but not boiling hot) water bottle wrapped in a towel and put in a cardboard box or recycle box lined with newspaper.
Cover the box in a blanket, place in a quiet place to warm up and phone us immediately.
If you are unable to contact us please call the British Hedgehog Preservation Society on 01584 890 801 or go directly to their carers page to find other organisations who can help.
Please note: We are only able to deal with emergency calls in Gloucestershire but the above link should help you find a carer in your area.
Hedgehogs that need help are:
Orphaned hoglets - found out of the nest in day, or when the nest has been destroyed and the mother killed or injured.
Injured hedgehogs - with open wounds, fractures, bites, burns, or trapped in some way.
Sick hedgehogs - usually found out in the day, thin, dehydrated, possibly poisoned, or with breathing problems. Hedgehogs that are unsteady on their feet (wobbling, rocking) and one with flies around them.
Autumn juveniles - young hedgehogs born late in the year, weighing under 600g from September onwards - especially if out in the day.
Hedgehogs that should be left alone:
Healthy hedgehogs will often arouse from hibernation for short periods even in cold winter weather. Do not assume these hedgehogs need help unless they are underweight or obviously unwell.
Adult females in summer that are uninjured but found out in daylight may be nursing mothers. Any large uninjured hedgehogs found at night (e.g. in winter or in the road) and picked up "for safety" by well meaning people should be put back away from the road but near where found.
Sun Feb 24, 2013 2:48 pm
