Letter: Help is at hand for our spikey friends

Already there have been sightings in many Yorkshire gardens as our spikey friends wake from hibernation.

Sadly, hedgehogs are in rapid decline and desperately need our help if they are to avoid extinction.

A shallow bowl of water, kitten biscuits and meaty cat food will be greatly appreciated by the hungry hogs.

Milk should never be given to hedgehogs as it contains lactose and causes all kinds of problems.

Despite their spikey appearance, hedgehogs are quite fragile little creatures and go downhill rapidly when ill.

If a hedgehog is seen out in daytime, looking rather wobbly or laid on the lawn as if sunbathing, only immediate action will save it.

Using gloves, pick the hedgehog up and place it in a cardboard box with a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel.

A poorly hedgehog needs to be kept warm.

Next ring your local vets who usually have names of hedgehog carers, likewise the Hedgehog Preservation Society.

The sooner the hedgehog is receiving care the better his chances will be.

For more help and advice on hedgehogs or indeed any British wildlife, please look on our website www.wildlifeorphans.co.uk or ring 07711 883072.

Annette Pyrah

The Wildlife Orphanage, York Road, Barlby