THE hedgehog population is on the decline, but a specialist carer in York is encouraging people to help put a stop to this and home a hedgehog.

There is little that can be done for those hedgehogs which fall prey to cars, but Dr Toni Bunnell, who has a sanctuary in York, has said people can help those animals which become victims to predators and weather conditions.

Dr Bunnell, 59, who has been a hedgehog carer for 18 years, said: “It would be great if more people could help look after hedgehogs at home.

“You can take the hedgehog to the RSPCA, but taking care of them at home would help reduce the over-crowding issue. The general rule is that a hedgehog should not be out in the daytime and, if it is, it is usually sick or injured and needs care and attention.”

She explained hedgehogs weighing less than 450 grams which are found in sub-zero temperatures are at serious risk and need immediate care.

She said: “Vulnerable hedgehogs should be kept indoors, excluding garages, and fed cat or kitten food that doesn’t contain gravy or fish.

“They should have access to water at all times and kept warm with hay or towels. They should be fed every night and their bed should be cleaned out every morning.”

According to Dr Bunnell the upkeep of gardens can help protect the species. She said: “Try to avoid having garden fences and if you do, keep a small hole somewhere near the bottom for hedgehogs.

“Avoid using slug pellets, hedgehogs eat loads of slugs and snails and are great for gardens. If you have a pond, make sure you have an access point so they can get out easily.”

Dr Bunnell also advised that leaving a small section of the garden uncut can help the hedgehogs so they can hibernate there.

Anyone interested in finding out more about homing hedgehogs or what to do if one is found, should visit britishhedgehogs.org.uk or phone Dr Bunnell on 01904 791124.