AS the nation prepares for the onset of Winter the colder and wet weather is really taking a grip.

But this time of year hedgehogs are particularly vulnerable and Clive Wenn of Help4Hogs, based in Shobdon near Leominster is asking people to be aware of what they do with the little prickly animals.

Clive said: "We are based in Shobdon near Leominster, Herefordshire.

"This time of year hedgehogs are still having young so they need a good supply of feed to gain sufficient weight to hibernate.

"Natural feed is getting in short supply so they need us to help them with support feed.

"With the constant building of houses and removal of hedgerows their natural environments are being compromised."

If you do come across an injured hedgehog people should be aware that they need to act quickly to help hedgehogs.

Clive said: "If a hog is found badly injured they need to be put in a high sided box with a heat source and taken immediately to vets.

"If they are poorly they can be taken to a local rescue who can administer medication for intestinal parasites, treat minor wounds and care for abandoned or orphaned hoglets.

"Help is needed as soon as hog is found to give it the best chance of recovery."

Feeding hedgehogs is easy as long as you choose the correct food and drink to give them.

"Meaty cat or kitten biscuits is all that is needed to help hogs along with fresh water.

"Never use milk, mealworms, peanuts or any bird food as these are detrimental to their health."

Hedgehogs are always looking for snuggly places to hibernate through the Winter.

Clive said: "Hedgehogs will hibernate pretty much anywhere sheltered and warm.

"Can be hedgerows, outbuildings, log piles, compost heaps and of course many people are providing a hibernation house filled with barley straw which is a great help."

For more information visit helpforhogs.co.uk