Meet Jasper, a very handsome Algerian hedgehog who was recently rescued in Xewkija, Gozo, after he was found stuck in a hole earlier this June. Thankfully, the Wildlife Rescue Team Malta responded quickly, and Jasper’s journey back to health began.

But the rescue team soon realised that being stuck wasn’t Jasper’s only problem. He was also severely underweight, and a check-up revealed he was suffering from an internal parasite burden, which had likely been affecting his health for some time.

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Thanks to dedicated veterinary care and weeks of close monitoring, Jasper steadily gained back his strength – and his weight! After getting a clean bill of health, he was finally released back into the wild in Għajnsielem, Gozo just yesterday evening.

Fun fact: Jasper belongs to the Algerian hedgehog species, which is native to Malta and Gozo, and different from the more commonly known European hedgehog. Algerian hedgehogs are smaller and come in two adorable varieties: light/blonde and dark/brown.

These hedgehogs are protected species, which means it is illegal in Malta to harm them or keep them as pets. Wildlife Rescue Team Malta’s volunteers are trained and licensed to handle and rehabilitate these creatures, giving them the best shot at survival.

If you ever come across an injured or distressed wild animal – including hedgehogs, bats, chameleons, turtles or birds of prey – you can contact the Wildlife Rescue Team Malta at 9999 9505. The team is equipped and ready to help.

Thank you to all the volunteers who make these rescues possible!