Hedgehog care practices highlighted by Turku resident Maritta Danielsson in Finland

Wild animals should not be disturbed or overly cared for, as it can be harmful to them. This understanding is shared by Turku resident Maritta Danielsson, who has been observing the lives of eight orphaned hedgehogs since August. She was approached for help when a suitable place was sought for the hedgehogs found in a community garden area.

Danielsson has spent time on her porch watching the hedgehogs come to eat and drink water, and she has declined requests to show them to others, despite the numerous inquiries. Other gardeners in the area have also spotted the hedgehogs visiting their yards and have participated in feeding them.

Anni Rautio, a hedgehog researcher, emphasizes that intervention in a hedgehog’s life is only warranted if they are injured or need assistance. Rautio, who obtained her PhD on hedgehogs from the University of Eastern Finland, suggests that care periods for hedgehogs should be as brief as possible, with them returned to their original location when feasible. If their winter nesting sites are destroyed or wet, they may require assistance, and contacting local wildlife rescue organizations or veterinarians for advice is recommended.

Recently, an animal hospital in Helsinki issued a plea for hedgehog protection, noting that social media was advising people to weigh hedgehogs for winter preparation. However, weighing healthy hedgehogs is not advised, as there is no absolute weight threshold for survival through winter.

Danielsson noted that the hedgehogs were actively foraging as autumn approached, with videos capturing their behavior before they settled into winter nests. She is eagerly anticipating spring to see if the eight hedgehogs have successfully wintered, ready to provide them food and water. She has found joy in observing their unique personalities and interactions.