Be the first to comment!Two hedgehogs released, two more in rehab at NTM Gozo Section
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The Nature Trust – FEE Gozo Section have recently released hedgehogs Lynn and Francesco following successful rehabilitation.
They have now been replaced in rehab by another two hedgehogs that are with the volunteers in Gozo – The two latest additions are Halo and Massimo.
The Gozo team said that Halo was found this week in the middle of the main road leading from Ghajnsielem to Qala. He is a male hoglet, and although he seemed ok at first glance, a closer look revealed a patch of missing spines. He is also too young to be on his own and had likely gotten separated from his mother.
Massimo was found last week near the Lunzjata Valley in Kercem. He is a very large adult male, and he also has bald patches with missing spines.
Both Massimo and Halo had intestinal infections which meant that they were not eating properly.
Both have been seen by a vet and are now eating well. They will also need to be treated against the cause of the bald patches before they can be released, the Gozo team said.
They explained that hedgehogs rely on their spines as their main form of defence against attacks and predators. Bald patches of missing spines means that a hedgehog is very vulnerable in the wild. There can be a number of causes, and they will need treatment before their spines grow back.
There are also three other hedgehogs still in rehab in Gozo – Natalia, Dolly and Andrea. The team said that all three are doing well and growing.
Hedgehogs are a protected species in Malta and cannot be harmed or kept as pets. NTM volunteers have wildlife handling permits as well as training and equipment to help these creatures.
NTM advised that if a member of the public spots a hedgehog, or any of the animals that it rescues, injured or in danger, then please call the Wildlife Rescue Team on 99999505.
“A massive thank you always goes to the public who call us when they notice a wild animal in distress, our vets, and our dedicated rescue and rehabilitation volunteers,” said the Nature Trust – FEE Gozo Section.
NTM said that donations are always welcome and can be sent by bank transfer or Revolut transfer on our Wildlife IBAN MT18 VALL 2201 3000 0000 4002 353 8289 , Swift code VALLMTMT.
The Wildlife Rehab Project is supported by the ERA – Environment & Resources Authority and Lottoland Malta.
Photos: Nature Trust – FEE Malta Gozo Section
