A HORRABRIDGE couple are asking for help from the public to look out for hedgehogs out and about this time of the year which maybe in trouble.

Colin and Annie Tyrrell, who have been caring for wild hedgehogs for four years, said: 'In some parts of the country hedgehogs are in decline.

'Hedgehogs need to be 600-650 grams in weight to be able to survive hibernation in the cold winter months. If they can't make that weight sadly many will die.

'They start to mate soon after coming out of hibernation from March onwards and some will have two litters. The first litter should make the weight with no problems because of the summer weather and plenty of their natural food around but the second litter can be born as late as November.

'These we call autumn juveniles and will be the ones in danger as by then most of their natural food will have disappeared, so they will eat more slugs and snails which is only five per cent of a hogs diet leading to heath problems.'

Anyone who would like to see hedgehogs in their garden could try putting out food like cat and dog meat in jelly, cat or dog biscuits, sunflower hearts and crushed peanuts and a fresh bowl of water as they do drink a lot. Never feed bread and milk as it can make them very ill or cause death.

To find out more or get advice especially if you see a hedgehog out in the day which means it is in trouble contact Colin and Annie on 01822 855305 or Horrabridge's other hedgehog experts Rick and Sandra Thomas on 01822 852574.

Colin would also like to express thanks to the kind lady at Westmoor Vets, Tavistock for her donation for the hogs.

Colin and Annie have been doing a hog survey for the second year now. They weigh, sex and mark them.

They are asking the residents of Horrabridge if they see a hog in their garden and it is marked in a colour please do not mark it again as this will interfere with their hog survey.

'The hedgehog is a wild animal — please do not try to keep as a pet they can become stressed which will kill them,' added Colin.