Hedgehogs rescued in Norwich
They'd become stuck down a ditch
Last updated 5th Apr 2021
Two hedgehogs who became stuck in a ditch after falling victim to a garden renovation have been rescued by the RSPCA.
Believed to have become stuck overnight, the hedgehogs were first spotted by the resident near Colman Road, Norwich, on the morning of Friday 26 March. They were then rescued by RSPCA Inspector Ben Kirby. As the garden was unsafe for them, they were released into an undisturbed area of a nearby cemetery after being fed some kitten food.
Ben said:
"I'm so glad that these little guys were spotted in time, it just highlights the importance of being mindful of wildlife. Hedgehogs hibernate from November to March, so they are just becoming active.
"Obviously, as a garden renovation, the cause of their mishap was temporary but it is important that we do what we can to prevent harm to wildlife. Creating a safe garden for wildlife includes having covered drains or drainage holes. It is a good idea to place bricks at the side of ponds, this will give hedgehogs and other wildlife a way out of ponds if they do fall in or get stuck. It's also good practice to check compost heaps and bonfires thoroughly for nesting or hibernating wildlife. It's also really important that any netting is put away when not in use and checked for damage regularly. Netting, especially when it is damaged can injure or trap hedgehogs, as well as birds and other wildlife when they become tangled in it."
Ben created a ramp out of an old fence post that was left in place, in case any other wildlife became stuck in the ditch in the future.