Houdini, a three-legged hedgehog named after the famous escapologist, is spending the winter in a garden in Hove, East Sussex. His carer, a local resident who has looked after him for three years, has created a 'halfway house' between the rescue centre and the wild to keep him safe during the colder months.
The hedgehog is thought to be at least five years old, with his bright pink nose indicating advanced age, and this may be his eighth winter. He first came to attention three years ago with a partially missing leg and a damaged nose. After being caught and taken to a vet, he had the rest of the leg amputated and was released back into the care of his rescuer.
Since then, Houdini has faced several health challenges, including an ear infection, a burst cyst, and various parasites. His age and disability make him vulnerable, and last week he was found asleep under a car and taken to a rescue centre before being fetched by his carer. He was free for only two hours before being picked up by a concerned member of the public.
Not all hedgehogs hibernate, but Houdini needs extra food and protection from roads if he wanders off. Plans are being made to create a larger enclosed space for him, allowing more room to roam while keeping him safe until at least March, when other hedgehogs may need the garden too.
For now, the garden serves as a halfway house, complete with a dry straw bed and a plentiful supply of food. His carer admits he is a constant worry, but the affection is clear: 'I love him.'
