Hedgehog in danger: How to save the spiky autumn heroes!

Hedgehog in danger: How to save the spiky autumn heroes!

These days, the streets are again a frequent sight of hedgehogs, which are actively looking for food, especially at dusk. The small, spiky animals are busy preparing for the upcoming winter, but what should you do when you meet an injured hedgehog? Simon Schürch from the Wildstation Landshut Foundation has some important tips and information in this context.

The autumn time is particularly intense for hedgehogs because they urgently need food to fill up their energy reserves. It can happen that you get into dangerous situations, especially in road traffic. Schürch explains that there is no immediate need to bring a healthy hedgehog into a catchment station. "As long as the hedgehog is healthy and has a good nutritional status, it is not necessary to bring it to a sanctuary," he says. It is best to recognize a healthy hedgehog when it rolls up well and lively looking for food.

First steps in an encounter with an injured hedgehog

If you find an injured or helpless hedgehog, you should first make sure whether help is really necessary. "A call to a specialist costs almost nothing and may be able to save a hedgehog life," continues Schürch. Experts often know immediately what measures should be taken to help the animals. It is important to get this support in order to avoid rushed decisions.

There are also some simple steps that can be followed when you meet an injured hedgehog. First of all, you should try to watch the hedgehog without touching it. If you have the impression that the hedgehog is in serious difficulties, you could carefully put it in a transport box with ventilation and a soft cloth. It is advisable to bring the hedgehog to a quiet place, far from traffic and noise.

A crucial aspect when dealing with injured animals is to be patient and to assess the Situation calmly. Many people act from a good impulse, but can do more damage unintentionally if they try to help. So Schürch recommends that you get advice by phone before further steps are taken.

For more information about the correct handling of hedgehogs and their care, it makes sense to contact local wildlife stations. Expert staff is available here to give helpful tips. This not only increases the chances of survival of the animals, but also helps to promote understanding of their needs.

Overall, it should be noted that the hedgehogs are particularly in need of protection during this season. A responsible handling of the little residents of our nature is decisive in order to enable you to hibernate safely and to provide you with the best possible help. For a detailed view of the case and additional information on injured Igeln, it is worth taking a look at the website of Simon Schürch and the Landshut Wildstation Foundation. Details can be found here .