Hedgehog put to sleep after Telford attack

The injured animal was taken in by staff at Cuan House Wildlife Rescue in Much Wenlock after being found in a horrific state.

Staff at the centre said that judging by his injuries it was likely that the hedgehog had been kicked and stamped on by unknown individuals.

They have now called on residents across the county to keep an eye out for any hedgehogs they see out during the day, as they are likely to need treatment, normally being nocturnal creatures.

Anna Nicholas, who runs the centre on Stretton Road in Much Wenlock, said: "Last weekend we received a call about a hedgehog that was curled up on the side of a path in an area of Telford.

"As he was out in the day, which is always a sign that something is wrong, the lady picked him up and brought him over to us.

"When we examined him we found that he was covered in blood, was bleeding from his right ear, had a misshapen back end, and, although he was half curled up, he couldn't uncurl his back legs.

"From previous experience we are 99 per cent sure that he was kicked around and then stamped on, his back end looked as if he had curled up to defend himself from the kicks then was stamped on which injured his pelvis so much that he was unable to uncurl his back legs from under him.

"His injuries are all consistent with this and not being hit by a car.

"Also when the lady found him he was also covered in cigarette ends."

Though Anna and staff and the rescue centre did all they could too take care of the hedgehog, because of the nature of his injuries, they were unable to save him.

Anyone who finds a hedgehog, should contact the rescue centre on (01952) 728070.