Cubert wildlife charity releases 100th Hedgehog at military base

Monday, 13 January 2025 00:00

A Cubert-based wildlife charity has released its 100th hedgehog into the wild at RAF St Mawgan.

The airbase became an official release site for Prickles and Paws Hedgehog Rescue over four years ago.

The charity, which admits injured hedgehogs and hoglets (baby hedgehogs) from across Cornwall, is building a brand-new "Hogspital" near the base at Carnanton.

Hedgehogs are classified as ‘vulnerable to extinction’ in the UK. When they recover, they must be safely released back into the wild. The charity says ideally this happens close to where the hedgehog was first found. However, if the original area is unsafe, the charity contacts designated release sites in similar or suitable habitats, such as RAF St Mawgan.

Prickles and Paws co-founder Katy South said:

“RAF St Mawgan is the perfect release site for hedgehogs, particularly hoglets, who end up at our rescue from unknown or unsafe locations. It is a large, safe area, free from natural predators, with lots of space and habitat for them to roam.

“We also use other sites for releases, but RAF St Mawgan is the largest, with over 20 nest boxes across the extensive site and several rewilded areas dedicated to hedgehog conservation. The team there are absolutely fantastic - they are so interested in our work and in helping these amazing creatures.

“Every year, we admit more and more hedgehogs, so local partnerships like these are invaluable to us. Seeing a healthy hedgehog go back to the wild is always a special moment for our team, and releasing our hundredth healthy hedgehog here at RAF St Mawgan is such a great way to start the year. We have a feeling it’s going to be another busy one!”

Sgt Paul Smith from RAF St Mawgan said:

“RAF St Mawgan is committed to supporting a number of environmental initiatives. We are in the fortunate position of being able to provide a safe and suitable habitat for these vulnerable creatures, as we are uniquely a training establishment rather than an active flying unit.

“Our estate has everything a hedgehog needs, which is reflected in a growing population. Many of the released animals choose to stay on-site after release. The project provides support 24/7 for last-minute releases and feeding during those first vital days back in the wild."

Prickles and Paws, a much-loved non-profit charity in Cubert, has gained over 46,000 social media followers and attracted support from patrons including model and TV celebrity Lucie Donlan and BBC Earth presenter Hannah Stitfall.

Since January 2022, the charity has been fundraising for its new hedgehog hospital to meet rising demand. With over 1,400 admissions each year, it has outgrown its current residential premises. The new Hogspital, which is 65% funded, will allow the rescue to help up to four times as many hedgehogs.

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