UK Registered Charity Number 1178929

Hedgehogs are hardy little things that will keep going no matter how ill they are or until they collapse.

We receive lots of calls about hedgehogs that are out during the day, have injuries or for advice if a nest is disturbed, when or if to intervene and what to do.

Hedgehogs are nocturnal so they should not be out during the day.

There are a few exceptions such as:

A female with young, she may be moving nest sites, having a break or looking for food.

If this is the case she will be moving with purpose or have young in her mouth.

Some also wake at dusk to look for food or are still about at first light. Young hedgehogs may leave the nest for a short time before returning , again this isn't anything to worry about as long as the hedgehog looks and is acting normally.

It can be very confusing but that's why we are here.

If you are unsure you can call us or your nearest rescue and we will advise you on what to do. (Click here)

If you do see a hedgehog out during the day or you have concerns, remember hedgehogs do not sunbathe and they shouldn't wobble when walking.

If it's trapped, a baby or it has an injury it will need help.

Not all hedgehog issues are visible, they can have an overburden of internal parasites and have a cough or what seems like cold.

If a hedgehog does need rescuing you will need a high sided box as they are very good at climbing and escaping.

Something to cover it such as a towel or fleece and somewhere it can go away from sunlight and flies.

There are diseases that can pass from hedghogs to us and precautions must be taken so gloves, towel or similar should be used to pick the hedgehog up.

Please do not wait to make the call or try to look after them yourself.

This page was last updated on 31-Oct-2022 09:32:56.

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