Bideford mother and daughter transform back garden into a haven for hedgehogs

In Bideford, a mother and daughter have taken a leap of compassion, turning their back garden into a sanctuary for hedgehogs.

Tina and Savannah Hawkins proudly run their own hedgehog rescue which purely relies on public donations since it is not registered as a charity. 

What started as an accidental rescue mission by 22 year old Savannah Hawkins in 2018 has now blossomed into Hedwig's Hotel Hedgehog Rescue.

Tina Hawkins, Savannah's mother, reflected on the origins of Hedwig's Hotel Hedgehog Rescue which was started by accident. 

“Savannah rescued a hedgehog when she was 16 in 2018. Faced with a rescue system stretched to its limits, she found herself stepping into the world of hedgehog care. One rescue organisation offered assistance and training, and that's where our journey began. We nursed that hedgehog until it was ready for release."

Driven by a passion for wildlife care, Savannah pursued the Vale Wildlife Course, approved by the British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS). They then started their mission from their back garden, housing the rescue efforts in a two-berth caravan.

Fast forward five years, and the rescue has evolved into the ‘Hogspital’, their upgraded haven for hedgehogs. Tina Hawkins has shared their incredible journey, "Last year, we cared for a total of 146 hedgehogs. While we faced the heartbreaking loss of 22, our success rate stands at an admirable 85%."

Savannah has now set her sights on a new goal – attending university in September to pursue a career as a vet. In the interim, Tina will be at the helm of Hedwig's Hotel, having completed the necessary courses.

Currently, the rescue has 19 residents, but Tina has anticipated a surge in numbers during baby season (March-June) when hand-feeding becomes crucial. On admission, each hedgehog undergoes a thorough health check, with faecal samples tested and necessary medication administered.

For cases beyond their expertise, such as serious wounds, the pair will organise a visit to the vet.

Tina has explained the importance of community involvement should a member of the public find a hedgehog out during the day. She stated, "Members of the public can contribute by putting out dry cat food, providing a bowl of water, and being vigilant for hedgehogs in their area. Except during baby season, any hedgehog out in the day needs help."

The pair follows the aim of “rescue, rehabilitate, release”, which they share on their website, https://www.hedwigshotel.co.uk

You can contact the rescue sanctuary on 07759 150892 for advice, questions, donations or hedgehog collection.

As listed on their website, the donation of old towels, bedsheets and newspapers are always appreciated. 100% of monetary donations made either through PayPal or in cash go directly to hedgehog care.