Heatwave Sparks Hedgehog Abandonment Crisis

A wildlife sanctuary in Dorset is currently inundated with abandoned baby hedgehogs due to an ongoing heatwave. The Dorset Hedgehog Rescue has reported a consistent stream of hoglets arriving at their facility, a situation exacerbated by the extreme hot weather. This harsh climate is compelling mother hedgehogs to abandon their young in a survival response driven by a lack of essential resources.

Volunteers at the rescue center are dedicating significant time to hand-feeding numerous young hedgehogs, with one volunteer caring for 21 hoglets. The center emphasizes that providing a consistent, shallow bowl of water is vital to encourage mothers to remain near their nests. Additionally, leaving out dry cat food is also beneficial.

The rescue center is organizing its first summer fete on August 1st, offering the public an opportunity to visit and learn more about the hedgehogs. This event aims to raise awareness and support for the sanctuary's critical work in caring for these abandoned animals during this challenging period.