West Norfolk-based Hedgehog Hotel expands care across county borders

Emma Pickering, of Terrington St Clement, is further expanding her Hedgehog Hotel operation by taking in animals from as far away as Spalding.

Qualified veterinary nurse Emma launched her hedgehog rescue in 2020, which has gained charity status, and now has a cabin to care and rehabilitate injured and sick animals.

Emma said: “My aim is to rescue them, rehabilitate them and release back to the wild where they belong.

“Hedgehogs are on the vulnerable to extinction list which is crazy.

“Humans have impacted on them with a change of habitat with artificial grass, blocking up fencing and pesticides in the countryside.”

Emma had been fostering hedgehogs for a number of years but was inspired to launch a rescue in October 2020 following the death of her mum.

Last year, she cared for a total of 160 hedgehogs with around 30 of those coming from Lincolnshire. Hedgehogs end up in Emma’s care for a variety of reasons, including injury from garden strimmers or vehicles, or illnesses such as salmonella.

Emma warned that hedgehogs are only seen out during the day if there is something wrong, unless it is breeding season.

She said: “If they are outside during the day you need to worry if they seem lethargic, exhibiting circling behaviour or they are very slow. This is normally down to a parasite infestation or salmonella.”

Anyone who sees this is advised to pop them in a box somewhere warm with some cat meat before seeking help.

Another reason that a hedgehog ends up in care is due to fly strike where flies have laid eggs on the hedgehog and the maggots can cause injury. In this case, the animal should be kept cool.

Previously Emma had been caring for hedgehogs at her home but is now looking after the animals in her cabin, which has increased incubators, an ITU area and recovery.

She is now hoping to find fosters to help recovering hedgehogs before release.

If you would like to help or report a sick hedgehog call Emma on 07847 464904.