Hello folks!
Life continues to keep me too busy (read stressed!), so as usual posts are rare and fleeting.
Over four nights last week I captured 4 juvenile hedgehogs from the garden, their weights ranging from 250g to 300g which is far too small for them to hibernate overwinter as they need to be an absolute minimum of 600g (preferably 650g at this time of year.) A neighbour bought another one to me that was wondering about in daylight - a SURE sign that there is something very wrong.
The lovely Joan who runs West Midlands Hedgehog Rescue has taken them all, despite being overrun with even more juveniles - she has been taking in as many as 8 a day. Sadly, despite her care and dedication the little chap found out in the day didn't make it, it's back leg had been injured (by a dog) and the wounds had become infected. Joan had administered pain killer and antibiotics.
Joan with one of the hogs,
The other four are all doing well and I shall return them back into the garden in the Spring.
Sadly, I just don't have a suitable place to overwinter these dear little creatures, and anyway they do need a health check to ensure they are in good health first.
PLEASE. keep an eye open for these hedgehogs as they DO need our help, without it they will most surely die.
If you do find an injured/underweight or sick hog pick it up in an old towel and place it in a deep box (as they are good climbers) and place in a warm, dry place until you can find help (not in an outbuilding as it will be too cold.). You should also place a hot water bottle (an old plastic drink bottle will do) wrapped in another towel to give heat as a sick hog will more than likely be suffering with hypothermia. It is best if there is an area without heat so that they can move away if they get too hot.
Please note if you see a hedgehog out in daylight there IS something wrong, it WILL need help.
Visit the British Hedgehog Preservation Society web site for your nearest rescue centre.
Remember that these centres are all voluntary and would benefit from even a small donation to help care for these endearing little creatures.
Here's a link to the Friends of West Midland Hedgehog Rescue Facebook page.
Hope to be back soon. In the meantime stay safe and well dear friends.
x x x
P.S. I'm sorry to see that I have lost a follower, but I guess it's because I'm just making enough posts....
11 comments:
You are an absolute kind soul. If I lived near you, I'd help.
I'll check their site to see if I can donate.
On another topic, do I have your address ? I'd love to send you a Holiday card. Just email it to me. All things to do while I'm recovering from my surgery.
Have a nice weekend,
JC
I'm sorry the little hog didn't make it, but it is wonderful to hear that some of the other under-weight hogs are being so well cared for over winter.
These creatures are very lucky to have you two dedicated people to get them through the winter!♥♫
Aw what a shame. Well done for helping these little fellows.
Liz @ Shortbread & Ginger
What a WONDERFUL post, I'm sad to hear the little one out in the daylight didn't make it, but thrilled to hear that yours are doing well. I do get upset when I think of all the babies who will die this winter.
I have found three this last week, well the dogs found them in the dark while walking. It was really hard carrying two little hogs while holding two leads but we all got back in one piece. All three of mine are now at the rescue.
I had a good look at Joan's rescue....what an amazing woman, I applaud her. You are both doing a fantastic job, bless you.xxxx
Why are theses little creatures so unhealthy? I had a college student in my kitchen talking about his friend considering buying another friend's hedge nog. I asked why? It reslly others me that they are kept as pets here in the US. Keep up the good work, Rosie.
If only all the little hedgehogs in your area knew how lucky they are having you look out for them! Don't let yourself be too stressed ...
M x
Oh dear Rose, how sad that the little ones are not doing what they should be doing.......and thank goodness they have people like you and Joan to assist them in hibernating as the Winter arrives.
I understand how busy you are at this time with the hoggies - do what you can because they need you so much - we can always wait for later posts and they are always worth waiting for I assure you.
Love and hugs dear friend - Mary X
Thanks for making me more aware Rose
they were asking for volunteers to overwinter hedgehogs down at the coast on the radio yesterday.
Arilx
Hi dear Rose - hoping all is well over there! You haven't been around for a while and I always get concerned when dear friends are silent.
Just want to wish you a beautiful Christmas and send blessings your way for the coming year. I hope your hubby and mum are doing OK too.
Stay safe and warm - enjoy the holidays.
Love Mary X
Merry Christmas, dear Rose!! I'm leaving a comment here to let you know that I sent you an e-card at your e-mail address, and I happened to think you may not check your e-mail for awhile. I hope all is well with you and yours.
You and Joan are so good to care for these precious little hedgehogs. I wish you luck in caring for them through the coming winter. I hope you like your Christmas e-card, and I hope to hear from you soon.
Warm Holiday Hugs,
Denise at Forest Manor
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