AN animal rescue charity is urging people to think about hedgehog-friendly ‘escape routes’ in ponds and swimming pools after a spate of fatal and near fatal incidents.

ELM Wildlife says it has been made aware of a recent spate of hedgehogs either drowning or coming close to drowning.

And in light of this, the charity, which runs a rescue centre at Seale Hayne, is urging people to think about making their pond or swimming pool safe for hedgehogs.

‘We cannot stress enough the importance of hedgehog escape routes out of ponds and swimming pools when they fall in’ a spokesperson for ELM Wildlife said.

‘Although they are actually very good swimmers if they can’t find a way out, they will eventually tire and drown, nobody needs that on their conscience!’ they added.

The charity has suggested using heavy duty rubber mats.

‘They can be cut down and are flexible enough to lay over most obstacles, we think they are a much better alternative to a ramp which could become slippery’ the spokesperson said.

‘If you have a pond or swimming pool, think about your wildlife and save a life’ they added.