Jane Smith

Two dear little hedgehogs, who were brought into a rescue I mentor, and who were expertly nursed back to health and released, were found dead yesterday. Poisoned. The devastated finder had no idea that compost bins are dangerous to animals (and can be to humans too) and should always be kept closed to prevent animals having access. Decomposing organic matter in a compost bin can contain fungi which produce neurotoxins called tremorgenic mycotoxins. These naturally occurring substances are highly toxic to both humans and animals. Although the contents are deadly, the invertebrates the compost attracts make it very inviting to the insectivore hedgehog, who trusts it as a source of food and shelter. The compost bin will be particularly attractive during the winter as it can provide a warm dry place to nest. Very few people realise that consuming even a small amount of compost containing these mycotoxins can be deadly, and there is no cure for this poisoning. Often people who find unexplained dead hedgehogs in their garden have no idea it was their open compost bin which was to blame. ⚠ If you or your neighbours have a compost bin, please ensure it is safe and inaccessable to wildlife, and your pets. riverroadveterinary.com/comp…