If you are unsure of what action to take then seek advice even if that advice is to leave the hedgehog alone. It will give you peace of mind and if action is needed early intervention means the hedgehog will suffer less and will have a better chance of survival.
Finding hoglets – sometimes hoglets will leave the nest just for a nose around. If one snuffles about looking for food etc and then return to the nest there is probably nothing to worry about. However, if it is crying or its eyes are still closed or it is wobbly, feels cold or is attracting the attention of flies. SEEK ADVICE. Ring Brackley HogWatch on 07528 119416/07976 704415.
It is helpful before ringing that you check to see if there is a nest nearby. Sometimes if a nest is at the top of a slope, it is possible that a hoglet may roll out of the nest by accident – but do not disturb the nest until you have sought advice. Also in the same situation, check to see if the hoglet’s eyes are open and if possible weigh it (both will give us an idea of its age). Before handling the hoglet, put on a pair of gloves, this will stop your smell being transferred on the hoglet and is also more hygienic for you.
However you will need to remove the gloves if you are to tell whether it feels cold to the touch – but this is up to you. Always wash your hands after handling any wild animal. If you see an adult hedgehog out in the day it could mean that it is in trouble. If it appears to be searching for food or collecting nesting material and behaving normally it may well be OK to leave it alone. If it wobbles, appears to be injured, is attracting flies or is jst lying in an exposed position SEEK ADVICE ring Brackley HogWatch on 07528 119416. If you think that you are interfering with nature, remember that nature did not invent the motorcar, built up areas nor large concentrations of dogs in those areas. Nor does her garden contain all the dangers that yours might. With your help some of the unnecessary suffering of hedgehogs may be reduced.