While on a night patrol last week, the Malta Ranger Unit were en route to a report in the north of Malta when something unexpectedly caught their attention in the middle of the road. What initially seemed like a small stone turned out to be something far more precious – a tiny Algerian hedgehog, far too young to be wandering alone.

Smaller than the palm of a hand – in fact, barely half the size – the baby hedgehog was likely separated from its mother and, at such a fragile stage, would not have survived the night on its own. Thankfully, the rangers knew what to do.

They contacted Wildlife Rescue Team Malta, the licensed NGO responsible for rehabilitating and caring for protected wildlife such as the Algerian hedgehog, which is native to the Maltese Islands. Within minutes, the team was able to hand over the little hedgehog, now lovingly named Milo, to a dedicated volunteer.

The Malta Ranger Unit also issued a reminder to drivers: hedgehogs are surprisingly easy to spot at night if you're paying attention. What might look like a stone in the road could be a small animal in danger. When caught in the beam of your headlights, hedgehogs can appear shiny or reflective – so please take a second look!

Slowing down on rural and country roads – especially at night and near open fields – can make a life-saving difference for Malta’s wildlife.

Milo will now be cared for until he’s strong enough to be released back into the wild, where he’ll get the chance to live out his life as nature intended. It's a small rescue, but one that speaks volumes about the power of quick thinking, collaboration, and care for the vulnerable animals we share our island with.

Wishing you all the best, little Milo!