Mullingar hedgehogs restored to health by ISPCA

A couple of young hedgehogs found in a garden in Mullingar and delivered to the ISPCA National Animal Centre are thriving since being treated for parasites and nurtured back to health, the ISPCA has revealed this week.

When discovered by a member of the public, the two were extremely cold and underweight.

Even they were infested with maggots in their eyes and ears.

Estimated to be around two weeks old, the hoglets were trying to fend for themselves since, sadly, their mother never returned to the garden.

As a result they were carefully removed and brought to the National Animal Centre where they received a cosy warm bed to gradually increase their core body temperature.

Dedicated ISPCA staff member Rosemary has been fostering these little guys since their arrival at the National Animal Centre and the team at the centre decided to call them Seamus and Padraig.

As they continue to grow, the ISPCA will adapt their food and care requirements and prepare them for a soft release prior to their hibernation where they will be monitored.

Hoglets are often found during the summer months. 

According to the ISPCA, typically hedgehogs nest under a garden shed, in a hedgerow, pile of garden debris or a compost heap.  If the female hedgehog is disturbed soon after giving birth, she could desert her hoglets. 

If you discover a nest, observe from a distance but it is advisable not to keep visiting it.  Another garden hazard for hedgehogs is becoming poisoned by pesticides or getting injured by garden equipment like lawnmowers or strimmers.

The ISPCA is urging avid gardeners to be vigilant and keep a look out for these beautiful little creatures.