A HEDGEHOG suffering from “balloon syndrome” is being cared for by the Scottish SPCA at Fishcross.

The animal resembled a beach ball when he was spotted by a member of the public on Sunday, July 23, in Shotts and it is believed he was clipped by a car, leading to a lung puncture and air becoming trapped under the skin.

Colin Seddon, manager of the charity's National Wildlife Rescue Centre in the Wee County, said: “Zepplin, as he’s now been named by staff, is currently being looked after at our National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Fishcross.

Alloa and Hillfoots Advertiser:

“Zepplin is suffering from ‘balloon syndrome’. It’s likely that he’s been clipped by a car, puncturing a lung and causing air to become trapped under his skin.

“Our animal rescue officer Louise Hume got a bit of a shock when she went to pick him up. He’s certainly one of the largest hedgehogs we’ve taken into our care.

“He’s been seen by our vet Romain, who is hopeful that Zepplin – now deflated- will make a full recovery.

“He’ll be closely monitored at our centre to make sure infection doesn’t set in before being released back into the wild once he’s fully recovered.”

Alloa and Hillfoots Advertiser:

Anyone who discovers an injured or distressed wild animal should call the charity's animal helpline on 03000 999 999.