Frisky hedgehogs rescued by RSPCA and firefighters after falling down a cattle grid - The Solihull Observer

Frisky hedgehogs rescued by RSPCA and firefighters after falling down a cattle grid

Solihull Editorial 16th May, 2018 Updated: 16th May, 2018   0

FRISKY hedgehogs had to be rescued by fireghters and the RSPCA after falling down a cattle grid while mating.

A dog walker in Harbury called animal rescue charity the RSPCA after her pup alerted her to the stricken hogs in the early hours of Wednesday (May 9).

The woman has rescued hedgehogs from the cattle grid before but on this occasion was not able to reach the pair.

RSPCA inspector Nicky Foster headed out to save the prickly duo.




She said: “The gaps between the metal grid bars were too small for me to pull the hedgehogs free so I contacted Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service who were able to use their specialist equipment to bend the bars so I could pluck the hogs to safety.

“We gave them some food and water and checked them over. Luckily, they hadn’t been injured and thanks to the lady’s quick-thinking weren’t stuck for too long so we were able to release them into the bushes there and then.


“I’d also like to thank the fire service for coming out and helping so quickly – it meant the hedgehogs were caused as little stress as possible and are now back in the wild, rooting around for grubs where they should be.”

And local firefighters say it was the first time they had been asked to help save a hedgehog.

Service commander Dave Pemberton said: “We’ve got lots of experience rescuing animals, but I think that it’s a first to be asked to rescue a hedgehog.

“We are always happy to assist the RSPCA when we can and were glad that we were able to use our specialist cutting equipment to bring them to safety.

“We are hopeful the hedgehogs will have learnt from their ordeal and that they won’t hog the limelight again any time soon.”

Anyone with concerns about stricken or injured wildlife can call 0300 1234 999 to speak to the RSPCA.

Visit www.rspca.org.uk to find out more about the charity.

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