Baby hedgehogs found near Portland Bill without mum

Paula Hebblewaite runs Paula's Wildlife Rescue on Portland. She looks after wild animals that need help before they can be released back into the wild.

At the moment she is taking care of 20 hedgehogs, including four hoglets found without a mum near Portland Bill lighthouse.

They weighed only 80 grams and are estimated to be three weeks old. Paula will take care of them until they weigh around 450 grams, at which point they will be released back at the Portland Bill.

Paula said: "I have sick ones coming in from the vets and it is the baby season at the moment.

"The babies are coming in fours weighing about 80 grams. They should be with mum really. They wouldn't be able to fend for themselves."

Hedgehog siblings found without a mum or nest at Portland Bill (Image: Paula's Wildlife Rescue)

Paula will also soon be releasing a female hedgehog she named Tracey.

The hog was rescued from a river at the Upwey Wishing Well by a member of staff.

"I think she was dry drowning. She was up and down for a few days, but she is being released today. You are never sure how they will respond, being wild animals," said Paula.

Tracey the hedgehog has recovered and will be released back near to the wishing well (Image: Paula's Wildlife Rescue)

Paula has a love of animals and started her rescue career when her daughter was training to become a vet nurse. She ended up involved with the now-closed Weymouth Rescue Centre and things ‘went from there’.

Most rescued hedgehogs are returned to where they came from if possible. Paula also cares for other small wildlife such as mice, birds and bunnies.

Paula added: "Please be aware of all the dangers in your garden to wildlife and hedgehogs, some you might not even realise dog bites are on the increase; forks and spades when digging and strimmers, bonfires, ponds, drains and holes left uncovered, no water causing dehydration, netting being left to low, slug pellets and traps, rubbish and black sacks. So many dangers out there for the wildlife to contend with, please be wildlife friendly they all need our help."

If you want to find out more visit: facebook.com/paulaswildliferescue