A hedgehog dying through slug pellet poisoning is extremely distressing to see. Garden chemicals and modern garden practises take their toll on all wildlife, so please consider gardening organically. A sprinkle of sand around precious plants is effective and harmless to other wildlife.

A wildlife garden provides an excellent habitat for many species, especially if you have a pond. Encourage wildlife into your garden with locally made bird tables, nesting, bat and hedgehog boxes.

We have had quite a few hedgehogs and other garden creatures that have been ‘strimmed’. Some recover but sadly, those that have lost limbs have to be put to sleep. So, before starting any land clearing work, please check thick undergrowth for inhabitants! And be particularly careful with bonfires as many creatures will make their homes in it if you pile up rubbish over several weeks.