Over the weekend, while out on what was nearly the end of a routine night shift, a sharp-nosed Ranger K9 made an unexpected discovery.

As the ranger team was preparing to wrap up, their trusty K9 partner signalled something unusual along the side of a country lane. Upon closer inspection, the team found a tiny, orphaned hedgehog, alone and in need of urgent care.

After a quick assessment, it was clear the little hoglet, later named Emma, was severely underweight – far below the threshold for survival without its mother. Thanks to the K9’s keen instincts, Emma was safely rescued before the cold or predators could do harm.

The hedgehog was promptly handed over to Wildlife Rescue Team Malta, who are now caring for her until she is strong and healthy enough to be released back into the wild.

‘This is just one of the many important tasks our Ranger K9 is helping us with,’ wrote the Malta Ranger Unit in a social media post, applauding their furry colleague for a job well done.

Hedgehogs in Malta are a protected species under Maltese law. If you ever find one in distress, you're urged to call the Wildlife Rescue Team Malta on 99999 505, which is a 24/7 hotline dedicated to saving local wildlife.

Let this serve as a reminder of the hidden helpers (both human and canine!) working tirelessly behind the scenes to protect Malta’s natural heritage.

Well done to everyone involved!