"These are the worst injuries to a hedgehog that I have seen for a long time" said Trevor Weeks founder of East Sussex Wildlife Rescue and Ambulance Service (WRAS).
On Wednesday WRAS rescuer Kathy Martyn rushed to Uckfield Community College after the caretaker found an injured hedgehog. The hedgehog was rescued and given initial treatment at Henley House Vets in Uckfield.
The hedgehog was suffering from a fracture to a rear leg but also trauma to it nasal cavity and head. The hedgehog was transported Meridian Vets at Peacehaven who were going to amputate the compound fractured leg but an x-ray revealled damage to the spine as well as pnemonia thought to be caused by the internal trauma. The hedgehog also had a injured eye too.
"No one was seen kicking the hedgehog but its injuries are consistent with having been kicked rather than having been run over" said Trevor Weeks.
The hedgehog was found near the caretakers house at Uckfield Community College which is also an area which members of the public have access to.
"We have informed the college who are genuinely concerned that this incident has happened on their land. WRAS has also informed the Schools Police Liaison Officer too" said Trevor.
"These are the worst injuries and case of suffering which I have seen in a long time" said Trevor Weeks, "this hedgehog was clearly suffering and despite putting many hours and expense into trying to save the hedgehog he was unfortunately put to sleep today as a result of damage. These cases are very upsetting for us and our volunteers to deal with and even more distressing for the hedgehog."
Anyone with information is urged to contact Sussex Police. WRAS is urging anyone who sees someone kicking a hedgehog to call Sussex Police on 999 and say that a crime is in progress and that the offenders are on site. As well as calling WRAS or another wildlife rescue organisation to ensure the hedgehog is given first aid as soon as possible.
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Press Contact: Trevor Weeks, Director, East Sussex WRAS, 07931 523958
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