Full Breakdown
Hedgehog Hospital: A Couple's Dedication to Wildlife Rescue
11/21/2025, 8:11:58 AM
Transforming a Home into a Rescue Center
Sharon and Andy Longhurst have converted their home in Burntisland, Fife, into a dedicated hedgehog hospital, known as the Burntisland Hedgehog Haven. This initiative began nearly three years ago after the couple encountered a sick hedgehog on a drive to Kirkcaldy. Their commitment to rescuing these animals has led them to treat 567 hedgehogs, with a survival rate of 65%. The Longhursts have established a maternity ward in their garden and an intensive care unit in their garage, supported by a team of 18 volunteers who assist in caring for the animals.
The Scope of Their Work
The Longhursts' efforts extend beyond mere rehabilitation; they also address the broader challenges facing hedgehogs. They have encountered various injuries in the animals they rescue, including those caused by fly larvae, gardening tools, and pesticides. The couple has also founded the Scottish Hedgehog's Rescue Alliance, which collaborates with centers in Perth, Dundee, and Dunbartonshire to manage the influx of hedgehogs when their capacity is reached. Their operation incurs monthly costs of £800 for running incubators, alongside an annual expenditure of £3,500 on veterinary bills.
Community Engagement and Awareness
To sustain their work, the Longhursts engage in community fundraising activities, including running races and raffles. They emphasize the importance of public awareness regarding hedgehog welfare, as European hedgehogs are classified as "near threatened" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This status reflects the species' declining population due to habitat loss and agricultural practices. Sharon Longhurst noted, "We love hedgehogs so much and there isn't enough help out there," highlighting the urgent need for intervention.
Recognition and Future Aspirations
The couple's dedication has garnered recognition, as they have been shortlisted in the animal category of the BBC's Make a Difference Awards in Scotland. The awards ceremony will take place in Glasgow, where they will learn if they have won. Their work not only focuses on rescuing hedgehogs but also on debunking myths surrounding the species, such as misconceptions about fleas.
Criticism and Challenges
Despite their success, the Longhursts face challenges in managing the volume of hedgehogs needing care. They often receive unannounced visits from individuals bringing in injured animals, which can strain their resources. Sharon expressed the emotional toll of their commitment, stating, "If there's a hedgehog out there that needs help and it's in pain, I can't say no." This highlights the delicate balance between their passion for wildlife rescue and the practical limitations of their operation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We will do all we can for a hedgehog, if it needs X-rays, investigations done we will try and do all we can to get that hedgehog healthy and back out in the wild,” — Sharon Longhurst, Hedgehog Rescuer
- “They've got so much against them,” — Andy Longhurst, Hedgehog Rescuer
- “We will do this until we are unable to - they are adorable, they are really lovely.” — Andy Longhurst, Hedgehog Rescuer
The Longhursts' unwavering commitment to hedgehog rescue exemplifies the impact of grassroots wildlife conservation efforts and the importance of community involvement in addressing environmental challenges.
