We have just rescued a very poorly hedgehog here at Loch of the Lowes, who we found wandering around in broad daylight looking very wobbly- never a good sign. It appears to be a juvenile which has not managed to find enough food this season and is seriously underweight, which is a problem as Hedgehogs need to weigh at least 600grams if they are to successfully survive hibernation over the winter. It is also showing signs of being seriously dehydrated , so into ‘intensive care’ in the office it came.

Following the expert advice from Hessilhead Wildlife centre , Hedgehog first aid  includes: being put into cardboard box with lots of air holes, in a dark warm place ;Being left quietly for a couple of hours to slowly warm up before attempting to administer warm water by mouth ( not easy when they roll up constantly!); Once it seems more alert, offering small amounts of mashed up cat food, and if possible insects etc.

So far the wee thing is doing well, but it isn’t out of the woods yet and may need longer term expert care as it is unlikely to survive if released into winter conditions.

So remember with Bonfire night coming up, to check under and inside your bonfire pile for hibernating hedgehogs and other small mammals, to avoid roasting more than your marshmallows.