THE steady drop in temperature has sent hedgehogs all over the country scurrying to find more food before they hibernate.

They are travelling further afield in search of food, which is why we are seeing more of them than usual dead on the roads.

To save hedgehogs from foraging across so many roads please leave out a little tinned, meat-based pet food and a tip-over-proof bowl of water for them. Hedgehogs need to weigh at least 600gms to survive hibernation, so every extra meal is a help.

Many of your readers will know of the existence of the British Hedgehog Preservation Society. Others may be interested in its aims:

To encourage and give advice to the public about the care of hedgehogs, particularly when injured, sick, orphaned, treated cruelly or in any danger.

To encourage the younger generation to value and respect our natural wildlife and, by supplying information and giving lectures, to foster their interest in Hedgehogs.

To fund serious research into the behavioural habits of hedgehogs and to ascertain the best methods of assisting their survival.

Anyone who wishes to learn more about the Society, its activities and the wide range of hedgehog goods which are sold should send a stamped addressed envelope to the address below.

A H Coles

British Hedgehog Preservation Society

Knowbury House

Shropshire, SY8 3LQ