Warminster hedgehogs get second chance thanks to local heroes

A group of rescued hedgehogs has been released back into the wild in Warminster, thanks to the efforts of a local couple and a dedicated wildlife rescue team. 

Over winter, Tim and Clare Hancock found three young and underweight hedgehogs in different places around the town.  The couple took the animals to Clare and Hannah Merritt at Fauna Friend Wildlife Rescue in Trowbridge.

The mother and daughter team took the hogs in and nurtured them, gradually building up their weight over several months to prepare them for release back into the wild.

Clare and Hannah brought the hedgehogs back to Warminster in early July and were joined by several members of Sustainable Warminster to watch their release.

Tim and Clare said, “For Clare and Hannah, it is a wonderful but emotional time for them.

“They have put so much effort into saving these amazing creatures, plus many other wildlife too.”

Matt Wisdom from Sustainable Warminster added, “Hedgehogs are at real risk of extinction in the UK.

“The work that Fauna Friend Wildlife Rescue do is so important to help protect and conserve the population. It’s fantastic that we can do our part right here in Warminster. It was an absolute privilege to be part of this release.”

Clare and Hannah brought three rescued males and three females in total for the release, hoping they would pair up and breed.

The six hedgehogs were released in the cool of the evening and the release site was selected to ensure safety and proximity to suitable foraging grounds. Food and water were put down and will be replenished in the near future.

Sustainable Warminster has also shared key pieces of advice for anyone who would like to support hedgehogs in town.

This includes leaving a shallow dish of water outside during dry periods, creating small holes in fences to allow movement between gardens and avoiding using slug pellets or harsh chemicals in your garden.

Puppy biscuits can be a tasty snack for hedgehogs but never feed them dairy or bread, as this can cause major stomach issues.