Hedgehogs in Need of Home Makers During Half Term

News
19/10/2016

Secret World Wildlife Rescue is inviting families to get up close to hedgehogs during the October half term.

The leading wildlife rescue centre, based in East Huntspill in Somerset, is holding a Secret World of Hedgehogs weekend from 22nd to 24th October. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about these much-loved prickly creatures as well as get involved in hedgehog-saving activities.

In the week that follows, from 25th October to 28th October, Secret World Wildlife Rescue will also be running family-friendly hedgehog shelter-building workshops. All equipment and instructions will be provided and shelters can be taken home at the end or left at the centre for their rescued hedgehogs when they are released later this year.

There will also be craft stalls, wildlife talks, children’s games and food on offer, making it a fun day out for the entire family.

David Foulds, CEO, said: “We rescue more than 500 injured and orphaned hedgehogs every year. Sadly, hedgehogs have become a less common sight in recent years. Their numbers have declined dramatically but there are steps we can all take to help one of Britain's favourite mammals.

“As a charity our main objectives are to prevent British wildlife from suffering needlessly and to inspire in everyone an understanding and love of wildlife and the countryside. We’re hoping that by opening our doors for our Secret World of Hedgehogs event during half term we can encourage people to take positive steps towards hedgehog preservation.”

Secret World Wildlife Rescue has recently entered a new phase of development which saw David take over the reins in July. One area David is keen to expand is the opportunity for people to come and experience Secret Word for themselves.

David said: “Until recently the centre was only open a few weekends a year but we made the decision over the summer to open our doors to the public on a daily basis and that was a huge success.

“We’re hoping that by opening our doors, we can give people more insight into the work we do and an understanding of our relationship with the various species we care for.

“Secret World does a fantastic job which is only made possible by the ongoing efforts of our volunteers and supporters. To ensure our survival, we want to reach even more people and inspire them to care for wildlife.”

The Secret World of Hedgehogs will take place from 10am to 4pm from 22nd to 24th October at Secret World Wildlife Rescue Centre, New Road, East Huntspill, Highbridge, TA9 3PZ. Entrance and parking are free though donations are encouraged.

Hedgehog shelter-building workshops will take place from 10am to 2.15pm from 25th to 28th October. Slots should be booked in advance by calling 01278 768706 and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Each shelter costs £15 to take home or £3 if being left at the centre.