Four individuals, including two teenagers, have been arrested after a hedgehog was spray painted in the colours of Leeds United football club in Yeadon, Leeds. The hedgehog, found with blue and yellow stripes, was left terrified and unable to move properly, leading to fears it could have starved to death.
Arrests and Charges
West Yorkshire Police's Wildlife and Rural Crime team arrested four men aged 44, 21, 17, and 15 on suspicion of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal, contrary to Section 4 of the Animal Welfare Act 2006. All four have been bailed pending further enquiries.
Rescue and Treatment
The adult female hedgehog was discovered by a woman at her home in Yeadon and taken to Prickly Pigs Hedgehog Rescue in Otley, Leeds. Staff had to scrub oil-based paint from each individual spine and administer pain relief. Diane Cook, 51, owner of the rescue shelter, described the actions as 'absolutely appalling'. She noted the paint was so thick it glued the hedgehog's spines together, restricting movement and leaving it vulnerable to predators. The hedgehog also had breathing problems due to paint fumes.
Impact on Hedgehog Population
Hedgehogs are in decline in Britain and are listed as 'Vulnerable' on the red list of mammals. According to the latest State of Britain's hedgehogs report, numbers have fallen by up to 30% in urban areas and 50% in rural areas since 2000.
Police Appeal
A police spokesperson said: 'Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or use the Live Chat option on our website quoting reference 13260401913. Information can also be given anonymously to the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.'
