As a year of helping out tiny critters from all over the Maltese Islands draws to an end, the Wildlife Rescue Team in Gozo has welcomed two new hoglets into its care over the past few days, and they’re already settling in nicely!

Ivy was found alone on a road in Għajnsielem, while Berry was discovered in Kerċem. Both Gozitan hoglets were far too young to survive on their own in the wild, and with no sign of their mothers nearby, volunteers stepped in to ensure their safety.

For now, Ivy and Berry will remain under the expert care of trained volunteers, where they’ve joined fellow rehab hogs Holly, Mistletoe, Miss Kevin and Howie. Once they’re old enough and strong enough, they’ll be released back into the wild, right where they belong.

Unlike their northern cousins, hedgehogs in Malta do not hibernate, as winters here aren’t cold enough. They can also reproduce all year round, which means it’s not unusual for wildlife rescuers to come across hoglets or juveniles struggling during the colder months.

It’s also important to remember that all rescued wildlife in Malta is protected by law. It is illegal to harm these animals or keep them as pets. The volunteers in Gozo and at Xrobb l-Għaġin are fully trained, equipped, and hold the necessary wildlife handling permits to carry out rescues safely.

If you ever spot a hedgehog (or any other wild animal) that appears injured or in danger, make sure to contact Wildlife Rescue Team Malta on 9999 9505.

Have you aided in any wildlife rescues this year?