Hedgehog Trapped in Drain Pipe for Days
A hedgehog was rescued after spending at least four days stuck inside a rusty drain pipe in Fife. The animal was discovered rolled up in a tight ball, jammed deep within the pipe outside Markinch town hall on a Monday.
Rescuers from Burntisland Hedgehog Haven initially attempted to free the hedgehog but were unsuccessful and feared it might be dead. However, when council workers returned the following day, they noticed a face peering up from inside the pipe.
Rescue Efforts and Use of Cooking Oil
The council had placed a cone over the open drain overnight to prevent further incidents. Upon learning the hedgehog had managed to turn around on its own, the charity workers returned promptly to continue the rescue.
"We believe this hedgehog had been there since Friday but we got the call on Monday afternoon.
When we arrived it was face-down in a ball. We tried for 30 minutes to free it but the spikes weren't moving and we suspected the worst."
Andy Longhurst, who co-founded the rescue charity with his wife Wendy, explained that during the second attempt, after initial efforts failed, his wife suggested using vegetable oil to lubricate the pipe walls.
"This time armed with tools I tried again. The hedgehog wasn't budging - then my wife reminded me to try vegetable oil," said Andy.
"After lubricating the outer walls of the drain eventually we could get the hedgehog out."
Discovery of the Adult Hedgehog and Health Assessment
Initially, the couple thought the animal was a baby hog, but upon extraction, they realized it was a chunky adult male. An inspection revealed the hedgehog weighed 982 grams (2 lbs 2.3 oz) and had a significant hygiene issue.
"When I brought him up to the surface I realised it was actually a big adult hog - and my goodness did he smell bad," explained Andy.
The hedgehog was found to be covered in 37 ticks, all of which were removed. Although exhausted, the animal was warmed, fed, and given fluids.
"He was covered in 37 ticks which we removed and he was exhausted but we warmed him up and gave him food and fluids.
He had a really good night and is running about the rescue centre today.
We don't think he is hurt but he will now be monitored for post restriction injuries which can take seven days to develop."
About Burntisland Hedgehog Haven and Hedgehog Awareness Week
The charity was established three years ago by Andy and Wendy after recognizing the absence of a similar service in the area. They now operate with 40 volunteer "hog ambulance drivers" who can collect hedgehogs in need from across Fife, Edinburgh, the Lothians, and as far as the Borders.
Hedgehog Awareness Week, which runs from May 3 to May 9, aims to highlight the challenges and threats facing the species.
