A HEDGEHOG rescue charity in Yate is appealing to residents to make sure they take care of their garden wildlife as hibernation season begins.

Hedgehog Rescue, a voluntary organisation which has been running for almost 17 years from a shed in the back garden of founder Yvonne Cox, take in the nocturnal garden animals from across the West of England if they are found sick, orphaned or injured, nursing them back to health.

Speaking to the Gazette, Yvonne said: “Hedgehogs are such endearing and lovable creatures, it isn’t hard to see why so many people like them.”

“While they are Britain’s most loved garden animal, they are an endangered species and people need to make sure if they know one lives in their garden that they know how to look after it.”

Many of the hedgehogs brought to the rescue are there as a result of malnourishment, or have been injured by nets, strimmers or dog-related incidents, with their facilities already catering for 50 guests.

Yvonne said: “I think that shows like Springwatch and Countryfile, as well as programmes where the RSPCA rescue animals have really helped with educating people on looking after wildlife in their back garden.

“What people don’t realise with hedgehogs is that the best way to get them to your garden is to feed the birds. Hedgehogs will soon follow as they are drawn to what is dropped.

“People are generally more aware that hedgehogs shouldn’t be out in the day and raise their concerns if any are out during the day.”

The charity has looked after around 2,500 hedgehogs in that time, with people having contacted them from as far away as mainland Europe.

“With a lot of underweight hedgehogs this time of year, a good rule of thumb is if it is the size of a guinea pig and feeding at night then it is ok to keep giving it food.

“Anything smaller than an orange when curled up, or ones that are out during the day should be brought to us.”

For more information on Hedgehog Rescue, visit www.hedgehogrescue.webplus.net

To report a sighting of a sick or injured hedgehog, residents should call Yvonne on 07971 663009.