Chris Legg, who runs the Prickly Prickles shelter from a shed in her garden, warns these ‘endearing’ creatures are in decline due to the impact of climate change and unseasonal shifts in the weather.
She is calling on people to keep an eye out for hedgehogs during the day in particular, warning this is often a sign of illness in these nocturnal creatures.
“I would love it if everyone was more hedgehog aware,” Chris said. “If you find a hedgehog out in the day, that’s not right – they’re nocturnal and are supposed to be asleep during day.
“If you find a hedgehog out in the day, take it to a rescue organisation if you can.
“If you can’t, then try to take it in and keep it wrapped up warm in a blanket in the dark.”