We are pleading with people to store or discard netting materials properly after an increase in the rescue of trapped hedgehogs.
Our National Wildlife and Rescue Centre have attended to at least three hedgehogs in the last couple of weeks who have been injured due to some kind of disused netting.
Chris Hogsden, manager at The National Wildlife Rescue Centre explains: “Within the last couple of weeks we have seen an increase in hedgehogs getting caught in fishing line, football netting, cable ties and other disused netting.
“Some of the injuries endured by the hedgehogs have sadly been so severe they have had to be euthanised to prevent further suffering.
“Sadly, animals can easily become tangled in everyday items such as football nets and fishing lines. Too often, we see cases where these materials have wrapped so tightly around animals that they can’t free themselves, and material has become embedded into their skin or cut off circulation to limbs.
“The animal will be highly stressed and exhausted so it’s important to keep your distance and call our helpline on 03000 999 999 right away. You should not attempt to remove the netting from the hedgehog’s body as sometimes constriction injuries can be quite severe once the netting is removed. Our trained animal rescue officers will attend and safely release the trapped animal.
“It’s important to store and discard these materials appropriately to avoid any animals coming to harm.”
For more information on what to do if you find a trapped animal here
