Hedgehogs struggling with mild winter - rescuers

Rescuers encouraged islanders to leave food and water out for hedgehogs through the winter months

Islanders are being asked to leave food and water out for hedgehogs as milder winters had affected their hibernation patterns.

The Jersey Hedgehog Preservation Group encouraged people to leave out dishes of water and bowls of dry cat food, which rescuers said would remain fresh for a few nights and benefit the teeth of the mammals.

Milder winters mean hedgehogs stay active for longer.

The group recommended islanders make a feeding box to keep food fresh and prevent cats and birds from eating it.

It said feeding boxes could be made by cutting a 5in (13cm) round hole and placing it upside down.

Islanders could buy ready-made boxes from the centre at White Lodge for a donation, the group said.

Hedgehogs were introduced to Jersey in the middle of the 19th Century at around about the same time as red squirrels, according to the group.