News

16 April 2003

First Uist hedgehogs arrive on the mainland

Date: Thursday 17th April 2003
Time: 12 noon - 1pm
Location: Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue Centre, Gateside, Beith, Ayrshire, KA15 1HT

Members of the press are invited to meet the first hedgehogs to be saved by Uist Hedgehog Rescue (UHR). The hedgehogs will be at Hessillhead Wildlife Rescue Centre in Ayrshire.

It has been necessary to rescue these hedgehogs because of the refusal by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) to accept a detailed and feasible rescue plan and scientific study proposed by UHR. Instead, SNH, using taxpayers’ money, has begun to needlessly kill the animals.

UHR began its rescue mission in March. All of the animals have been under the care of experienced wildlife veterinary nurses and are being checked by an experienced wildlife veterinary surgeon before being transported to the mainland. Following their stay at the Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue Centre, the hedgehogs will be moved to regional centres around the UK before being released into carefully selected sites. The welfare of the resident and relocated hedgehogs will be paramount at all times. UHR’s operation is supported by expert and specialist veterinary and scientific advice.

Notes to Editors
For further information contact Advocates for Animals on 0131 225 6039. Out of hours call 07946 517585. For Hessilhead Wildlife Rescue Centre call 01505 502 415.

<  Back to News