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Drought Devastates Hedgehog Populations
5 Aug
Summary
- Extreme dry spells reduce food for hedgehogs, impacting milk quality and supply.
- Rescue centers report a significant increase in starving and dehydrated hedgehogs.
- Wildlife rescue centers also aid birds and other animals affected by the heatwave.
Britain's wildlife is facing severe challenges due to an extended period of hot and dry weather.
Rescue centers are reporting an unprecedented influx of young hedgehogs, known as hoglets, as well as starving adult hedgehogs. The lack of food due to the drought means mothers cannot produce adequate milk, or their supply is drying up.
This situation is compounded by the fact that hedgehog populations have already drastically declined over recent decades. Experts note that while hedgehogs have adapted over millions of years, the current rapid climate changes leave them unable to adapt quickly enough.
Other animals are also affected. Birds have been found dehydrated or even trapped in dried-up ponds. Rescue centers are working to provide aid to all wildlife struggling with the extreme heat and lack of water.
