Nature Trust Malta’s Gozo team has had its hands full once again, following a triple rescue earlier in the week. Over the weekend, the team responded to multiple calls involving hedgehogs, a hoglet, and a snake.

The weekend started early on Friday with a call from Victoria hospital, where a hedgehog was found stuck beneath an air-conditioning unit. The animal was safely retrieved and is currently under observation. Volunteers noted a bald patch on its back, which could be a sign of a fungal skin infection. It will receive treatment before eventually being released back into the wild.

Later that afternoon, another hedgehog was rescued from Qala. This one was in more serious condition, suffering from laboured breathing, a chest infection, and even maggots in its ears. The animal was examined by a vet and given medication, but its condition remains unstable.

Not all calls had a happy ending, sadly. The team responded to an injured western whip snake after an encounter likely involving a cat. Unfortunately, the snake did not survive despite rescue efforts.

On Saturday morning, volunteers were called to Nadur where a hoglet had been spotted on its own for two consecutive days, with no mother in sight. Too young to fend for itself, the tiny animal was taken in and will now join another orphaned hoglet, Athena, in Nature Trust’s growing ‘hoglet nursery’. This new arrival has been named Ares, keeping the little Greek goddess in good company!

These new rescues join the group’s two existing patients, Athena and Quilliam. With the recent arrivals, volunteers are now also looking for name suggestions for the hedgehog with the bald patch and the hedgehog suffering from a chest infection. Nature lovers are encouraged to share ideas in the comments on Nature Trust Malta’s social platforms.

All rescued animals are protected species under Maltese law, and it is illegal to harm them or keep them as pets. Nature Trust’s wildlife rescue teams are trained and licensed to handle such creatures, working around the clock with the help of vets and dedicated volunteers.

The organisation is also encouraging the public to remain vigilant. If you come across any injured or distressed wild animals, you can contact the Wildlife Rescue Team Malta on 9999 9505.

For those looking to support or learn more, Nature Trust Malta also runs a rehabilitation centre at Xrobb l-Għaġin, which is open to the public by appointment. Visitors can meet some of the rescued animals, including sea turtles and hedgehogs, and learn about the charity’s ongoing efforts. While entrance is free, donations are always welcome. To book a visit, email [email protected].

Ever saw a little creature like these in distress?