Found a hedgehog

Hedgehog eating food -copyright Gillian Day

Hedgehog eating food © Gillian Day

Hedgehogs usually hibernate between November through to mid March, but they can sometimes be seen out and about during this period changing nesting sites. 
image of a hedgehog in box -copyright gillian day

Hedgehog in care © Gillian Day

What to do next if you've found a hedgehog

It's unusual to see a hedgehog staggering around during winter or in daylight, so if you do see one and it looks unwell, it might need a helping hand. If you haven't already, contact The British Hedgehog Preservation Society, who can offer in depth advice and help you find a local rescue centre. Cumbria Wildlife Trust does not offer a general service for care and rehabilitation of sick or injured animals. 

Should I try to help a sick or injured hedgehog myself?

Hedgehogs are wild animals, so being handled is a stressful experience. If you're unsure about the handling and caring of a sick or injured hedgehog, contact The British Hedgehog Preservation Society before trying to help.

If you decide to intervene, here's what to do:

Curled up Hedgehog in the hands of a person wearing gloves in autumn -copyright Tom Marshall

© Tom Marshall

  1. Prepare a cardboard box with high sides by lining it with a towel or scrunched up newspaper (so that the hedgehog can hide).
  2. Find yourself a pair of gardening gloves before gently scooping up the hedgehog into the box.
  3. Keep the box in a quiet, warm place: a hot water bottle filled with hot tap water wrapped in a towel can provide a gentle heat source – make sure it doesn’t go cold!
  4. You can provide some fresh water and meaty cat or dog food, but don't try to feed the hedgehog directly.
Hedgehog ©Tom Marshall

Hedgehog ©Tom Marshall

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