Remember, remember…

…The fifth of November. If you’re enjoying bonfires and fireworks this weekend, please make sure to check for wildlife including hedgehogs before setting them alight.

Every year many animals are injured or die because bonfire piles are not checked before being lit. Bonfires look like a great shelter to hedgehogs and other small animals so many crawl into the wood piles to hibernate. It is crucial to check your bonfire or if possible re-site it before igniting.

If you have to build a large bonfire in advance, protect it by putting one metre high chicken wire around the bottom. Hold it in place with stakes so the wire slopes outwards at an angle to make it difficult for wildlife to climb.

If a hedgehog is found, wear garden gloves and take as much of the nest as you can and place it in a high-sided cardboard box with plenty of newspaper. Ensure there are air holes and that the lid is tightly secured. Put the box in a safe place with some meaty cat/dog food and fresh water. Once the bonfire is completely dampened down, release the hedgehog under a hedge, bush or behind logs with more food and water.

Hedgehogs are in decline so this is of great importance. Please enjoy your Bonfire Night celebrations and stay safe!

Information with thanks to the British Hedgehog Preservation Society www.britishhedgehogs.org.uk.

Picture caption: British Hedgehog Preservation Society Patron, Ben Fogle, with a hedgehog.