A local hedgehog rescue have asked residents to leave the hedgehogs some leaves as the leaves begin to fall this autumn.

Prickleback Urchin Hedgehog Rescue is a home hedgehog rescue run by a duo who love hedgehogs and are passionate about helping the endangered mammals.

Rachel and Jay have been running Prickleback Urchin Hedgehog Rescue from their home since July 2021, and have cared for over 220 hedgehogs in that time.

Prickleback Urchin Hedgehog Rescue support local hedgehogs in and around Rutland. Image credit: Prickleback Urchin Hedgehog Rescue.

The project started when the couple discovered that there were no hedgehog rescues in the county of Rutland committed to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of this unique animal which is now classed as 'vulnerable to extinction' (2019). They wanted to change this.

Now they work with local residents, volunteers and veterinary surgeries to help support Rutland's hedgehog community.

They are not a charity, so they rely on donations of goods and money to keep going, as well as hosting an annual fundraising quiz and other well-supported local events.

Hedgehogs are at risk of extinction. Image credit: Prickleback Urchin Hedgehog Rescue.

They also rely upon word of mouth, social media and support from local people to spread the word when it comes to all things 'hedgehog', and they have taken to social media once more to remind Rutland residents not to over tidy their gardens this autumn.

They said: "Please don't over tidy your gardens… hedgehogs desperately need the leaf litter as nesting material as the Autumn begins. Leaving piles of leaves is good for hedgehogs and so many other species in our rapidly depleting ecosystem."

You can find out about what the team do and how you can help by following the team on Facebook for regular hog updates and more.

The Prickleback team accept donation on their Amazon Wishlist. Image credit: Prickleback Urchin Hedgehog Rescue.

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