Prickles and Paws

Prickles and Paws is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of native British hedgehogs. Founded by mother and daughter team, Diane and Katy South, it is the largest hedgehog rescue centre in the Southwest. With referrals coming from across Cornwall and Devon – including from the RSPCA, veterinary practices and the general public – the charity’s two fulltime staff and a team of volunteers work tirelessly, The charity also runs a helpline, attends events, provides educational talks and workshops, and leads on an important research programme with the aim to improve hedgehog care and conservation around the clock, and have rescued and nursed more than 5,188 poorly or orphaned hedgehogs since becoming a registered charity in 2017.

Over the past 2 years, the charity has been looking for a suitable location for expansion. After successful exploration, in 2022 the charity secured planning permission to construct a larger, bespoke Hedgehog Hospital on the accessible Carnanton Estate, Newquay (TR8 4EA).
Such a new site and purpose-built facility will increase Prickles and Paw’s capacity to rescue and rehabilitate more sick, injured and orphaned hedgehogs, expand its educational offer, increase volunteer opportunities, and importantly allow the continuation of the university supported research program to improve hedgehog welfare.