PEOPLE are being urged to ensure hedgehogs are kept safe near water this spring by fitting 'escape routes'.

As the hibernation period for hedgehogs is ending, individuals and organisations that own or manage ponds and pools are encouraged to provide life-saving ramps for the wildlife.

Like several other animal species, hedgehogs resume their activities at the start of the spring season. However, this makes it more likely for them to fall into water bodies at this time of the year as they leave their nests to forage for food.

Once they are in the water, it could become difficult for hedgehogs to get out if the sides are sheer or steep, if the edges are beyond their reach or if climbing is not easy.

Installing ramps, mats and other escape routes would help the small mammals avoid the painful and lengthy process of dying in the water.

North Yorkshire Council’s County Hall Premises Manager, Brian Barritt, said: “We were approached by Anne Stewart about fitting escape ways for hedgehogs in the two ponds at County Hall in Northallerton. We were delighted to welcome the suggestion that she made as it could save hedgehogs.”

Helmsley's resident Anne Stewart said: “Hedgehogs restart their activities in March and April every year, so there is a greater risk for them to fall into lakes, pools and other bodies of water in the coming months. I am glad that we now have the right solution to enable hedgehogs to leave the water at the two ponds at County Hall.”

Helmsley’s representative on North Yorkshire Council, George Jabbour, added: “I have known Anne for a while and her enthusiasm and determination to look after our environment and wildlife is infectious. I would encourage anyone who runs a water body to consider whether installing escape ramps would be beneficial to preserving the population of hedgehogs in our area.”

Fay Vass, Chief Executive for British Hedgehog Preservation Society, said: “Ponds are great for wildlife and attract a multitude of creatures including thirsty hedgehogs – however, they do need escape routes to exit safely.

“We can all make small changes to make our gardens and green spaces safer for hedgehogs – from adding wildlife escape-routes in ponds, to carefully checking before mowing or strimming vegetation. Our website has lots of suggestions on how to create the perfect habitat for hedgehogs to thrive – www.britishhedgehogs.org.uk”