AN URGENT appeal has been issued for food donations to help hoglets currently being cared for in the Wee County.

The Scottish SPCA are in need of food for 80 to 90 hoglets currently in their care at the National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Fishcross.

They have asked people to donate Royal Canin Starter Mousse, which provided the young hedgehogs with essential nutrition while they are being cared for at the wildlife hospital.

April Sorley, assistant manager at the centre, said that the nice weather is causing hedgehogs to breed more.

She said: “Generally, hedgehogs produce young twice a year but we are seeing this go on longer due to the changes in weather.

“Many of these little hoglets need to be hand-reared so will need to be fed every three to four hours.

“Most of the hoglets will stay with us for around two months until they have grown and gained weight.

"Then they should be ready to be returned to the wild where they belong."

April continued: "The Royal Canin Starter Mousse is great for the wee hogs and it keeps their tummies full and gives them the nutrients they need to grow nice and strong.

“At this time of year we are urging people to take extra care when tidying up their gardens.

"Many hedgehogs come to us injured by garden equipment or a nest of hoglets can be uncovered.

“If anyone does accidentally injure a hedgehog, or find a hoglet, then they should contact our animal helpline on 03000 999 999 for advice.”

Any donations can be handed into the centre in Fishcross, FK10 3AN, or donated through the Amazon wishlist amzn.to/3aU5Cat or any other retailer offering delivery.