Found a Hedgehog?

Hedgehogs are wild animals and should usually be left alone. However, if a hedgehog is injured, unwell, orphaned or in danger, prompt action can save its life. This page will help you decide when a hedgehog needs assistance and what to do next.

If you are unsure whether a hedgehog needs help, please contact us for advice

Does this hedgehog need help?

What should I do to help?

📦 Place the hedgehog in a secure box
Use a high-sided cardboard box, pet carrier or similar container. Add a towel or fleece for bedding.

🌡️ Keep it warm
A warm (not hot) wrapped hot water bottle or heat pad under half of the box can help a sick or injured hedgehog maintain its body temperature.

💧 Offer water
Provide a shallow dish of fresh water if the hedgehog is alert enough to drink.

📞 Contact Nash Hedgehog Rescue
Please get in touch as soon as possible for advice. If you can, send photographs and details of where and when the hedgehog was found.

🦔 A hedgehog out during daylight
Especially if it appears weak, lethargic or unwell.

🩹 An injured hedgehog
Bleeding, limping, trapped or attacked by an animal.

🪰 Flies or fly eggs present
This is an emergency and requires urgent attention.

🥶 A very small hedgehog
Particularly in late autumn or winter.

😴 A hedgehog lying out in the open
Not moving away when approached.