HEDGEHOGS have continued to be admitted to the hospital over the last few weeks, some in very poor condition, suffering from worms, which can very often prove fatal.

There have also been some serious injuries, including broken jaw, puncture wounds, ruptured eyes, and some with massive infections.

With the help and advice of our vet, some may survive, others have to be put to sleep.

Litters of hoglets are still being found – some are lucky but others are at risk of being attacked by dogs and suffering bite wounds which soon become infected.

Now is the time to be looking out for “autumn juveniles” – young hedgehogs that are underweight or just out of the nest – these are very unlikely to survive the winter without care.

Young hedgehogs need to put on enough body fat to survive the winter or they will not wake up from hibernation.

If you find one – please weigh it and call the hospital if it weighs less than 600g.

Any hedgehog seen out in the daytime is likely to need help.

Also take care when clearing the garden in the autumn as this is when hogs are likely to be disturbed under sheds, or when chopping down vegetation.

With the end of the summer, our fundraising season has come to an end – many thanks to all who supported at Frampton Country Fair.

The weather was ideal and brought out the crowds – our stall was busy, especially the tombola and sales of our merchandise including our 2015 calendar, which can also be ordered via our website.

After a short break, we will be attending local charity fairs in the pre – Christmas period, and also continuing our talks and outreach work with schools and groups of all ages. Visit www.helpahedgehog.org.