News: August 2003

In some parts of the country, the long dry summer may have left some hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) in short supply of two of their staples: slugs and snails. Gardeners can help by providing a little extra feeding.

Hedgehogs don't really start to build up their fat reserves for hibernation until November and at that time of year, a little supplementary feeding can be make all the difference to them. But Ros Rumbold from the British Hedgehog Preservation Society advises that in areas where their normal food sources may have been hit hard, supplementary feeding can be tried now. She suggests that cat food is a good thing to try leaving out for them. Cow's milk is not good for young hedgehogs (many of which will be about at the moment), but goats milk, if available, is acceptable. She says that hedgehogs found during the day at this time of year are probably in trouble. Anyone needing advice about orphaned or sick animals they have found can get help from the British Hedgehog Preservation Society on 01473 687120 (Suffolk branch).

Evening Star. 2003. Helping hand needed for hedgehogs. Viewed on the web at http://www.eveningstar.co.uk/Content/news/story.asp?datetime=27+Aug+2003+23%3A19&tbrand=ESTOnline&tCategory=News&category=News&brand=ESTOnline&itemid=IPED26+Aug+2003+12%3A19%3A18%3A630 on August 28th 2003.