THE autumn season of talks with the Frome Selwood Horticulture Society (FSHS) discussed the life of the hedgehog, a subject never before addressed in the Society’s 56 year history.
The society reports, “Not only was it seasonal with the mammals’ imminent autumn habit of hibernation, but topical also as the sixty or so members and visitors heard about how best to naturalise our gardens and wildlife strips to encourage cover and at least avoid the dangers of bonfires.
“Laura Batt who works for the Prickles Hedgehog Rescue Centre in Cheddar, spoke about how she has transformed her garden and life in her mission to preserve the hedgehog. With numbers down to less than 1 million from the 30 million in the 1950’s, the mammal is on the Red List and classed as vulnerable to extinction. Beatrice Potter may have immortalised the mammal as Mrs Tiggy-Winkle. WE could do more to ensure the hog of the hedge actually survives.
“Laura spoke about how the Centre was founded in 2007, and gained charity status in 2013. In that time 5,000 hedgehogs have been released back into the wild; that is 650 a year, but it is 650 gms that is so important, as below that weight, they simply will not survive hibernation or cope with rehydration. Hedgehogs fall prey to worms, be it lung, intestinal or ring; and also badgers, terrier dogs and road traffic said Laura. Dehydration is a huge problem for those brought to the shelter, but with intensive 24/7 feeding and cleaning, many survive.
“Hedgehog facts such as living 2-5 years, having 5,000-7,000 spines, travelling at 10 miles per hour and there being fossil evidence of existence some 50 million years ago brought home just how important it is to ensure their survival. Far from being cute to see in the day time, this is a red alert sign for this nocturnal animal with poor sight but good hearing.
“Laura recommended that as hedgehogs come out of hibernation in the Spring, to put out cat food in jelly and digestive biscuits. NOT bread or fish, and definitely not milk as they are lactose intolerant, and ALWAYS water. Don’t be too tidy in the garden and maintain compost, wild areas and wood piles which also act as warmth and an insect hotel and food den for the hogs. Above all, avoid danger from plastic can tops or the blue slug pellets which poison, AND be political! Campaign to your local Parish Community Environmental Officer to have “Slow down for hedgehogs” signs, as well as a wildlife margin in new builds which includes a pathway through panel fencing for their nightly 1-2 mile meander.
“In summary, Laura said if in doubt about a hedgehog, call the British Hedgehog Preservation Society on 01584 890 801.
“If you should be interested in attending the Frome Selwood Horticulture Society monthly seasonal talks please call Jane on 0777 620 8531 or Jane.norris9@gmail.com.
“We meet on the second Tuesday in the month at Critchill School, top of Nunney Road, Frome, BA11 4LD, at 7.20pm. New members and visitors welcome.”
