Wildlife First Response

03/06/2026

Another Cawdor spot!

This beautiful Poplar Hawk Moth was resting on a shed door today. They’re entirely nocturnal but obviously decided this was a good spot for a rest.

What a work of art.

02/06/2026

A little bit of good news from the Moray Coast. 🦔

My aunt is lucky enough to have some wonderful hedgehogs visiting and living in her garden, including this wee character.

Hedgehog numbers have declined dramatically across Scotland in recent years, so it’s always heartening to see them thriving in a safe, wildlife-friendly space where they can find food, shelter and protection.

Every garden can make a difference. Leaving wild corners, providing access between gardens, and avoiding pesticides can all help these much-loved visitors.

Long may this wee one continue to wander the garden after dark. 💚🦔

01/06/2026

A little reminder for everyone to keep an eye out for our precious red squirrels. 🐿️

On Saturday, I spotted a beautiful juvenile red squirrel on Newton Road, Cawdor. He suddenly dashed out in front of my car and then stopped right in the middle of the road, looking completely unsure of what to do next. Thankfully, I was driving slowly anyway so I was able to stop and marvel at him.

With young squirrels exploring their surroundings, they can be unpredictable near roads, so please take extra care when driving.

These special little animals are an important part of our local wildlife, and a moment of caution could make all the difference in keeping them safe.

Please slow down, stay alert, and help us look after our red squirrels. ❤️

Tagging locals! Cawdor Deli

📷 a little red I shared a rainstorm with once in Aberdeenshire.

01/06/2026

What on earth?!

31/05/2026

28/05/2026

🦊🦉 If You Find An Injured Wild Animal/Bird, Please Seek Help Immediately 🦔🦅

One simple phone call really can mean the difference between life and death.

If you find an injured, sick, or vulnerable wild creature, please contact a wildlife rescue as soon as possible. The sooner trained rescuers can assess the situation, the better the chances of survival and recovery.

For Scotland, we recommend:

Highland Wildlife Rescue for North Scotland & the Highlands

New Arc Wildlife Rescue for North East Scotland, Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire

We know there is a lot of advice online telling people to “leave them a while and see if mum comes back.” Sometimes that is appropriate, but those decisions should always be guided by experienced wildlife professionals.

Please don’t guess. Don’t rely on social media comments. Don’t wait hours hoping things improve on their own.

Call a rescue first. They will advise you on exactly what to do in the best interests of the animal.

A frightened, injured wild animal/bird cannot ask for help itself. That part, unfortunately, has been outsourced to humans.

Please share this important message with friends.

25/05/2026

🤬 NETS 🤬

We really must learn from the numerous incidents that injure and kill wildlife.

On Thursday we attended a rescue of this badger cub that was spotted tangled in a football net at a school in Coventry.

When we received the phone call, we were told the badger was very distressed, calling and thrashing around trying to find a way out.

When we arrived just an hour later (due to the drive), she had already given up and was exhausted after a long night, laying flat out until we approached.

One of our team safely held the cub still, whilst the other cut away all of the netting from her body, which had already caused a nasty gash to her neck. The netting was very tight around her whole body.

The cub is now recovering in our care and being closely monitored in case of any further development of constriction wounds (which can take up to 2 weeks to show).

The school are now ensuring that all their football nets are put away when not in use - an essential thing to do to prevent these issues to wild animals.

If you are able to support our life saving work, and specifically the care of this cub, please donate here - https://www.justgiving.com/charity/leicestershirewildlifehospital

Thank you for your support

23/05/2026

We are aware of sightings of a cetacean - believed to be a humpback whale - in the Beauly Firth between Inverness and Chanonry Point. We'd like to remind anybody heading onto the water to be respectful of the whale and be responsible if using power driven vessels, especially with regards to your proximity and wash.

Any concerns for marine mammals should be reported to the British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) on their rescue hotline 01825 765546

22/05/2026

I’ve had the misfortune of lifting numerous dead Red Squirrels off roads in North Scotland so it’s a huge boost to see a success story like this!