MSP Joan McAlpine received a ‘prickly’ welcome during a visit to the South of Scotland Wildlife Hospital last week.
But the Dumfries and Galloway MSP was not phased – as the offender was little Harvey the hedgehog. Harvey is just one of many hedgehogs who need a little extra help from the staff at the wildlife hospital over the winter months.
Joan was was there to find out about the great work that the staff do for all the animals that come through their doors.
Commenting, Ms McAlpine said:
“Being an animal lover it was great to meet Harvey the Hedgehog – but also to see first-hand the facilities at the Hospital and the great work that happens there.
“Quite a variety of wildlife comes through the doors – I saw a crow who had lost its tail, and a buzzard with a sore leg. And the staff were preparing for an influx of orphaned ducklings.
“The Wildlife Hospital is an amazing educational resource for the south of Scotland and an excellent learning opportunity for the students at the Barony.
“Well done to all the staff, but particularly to Leigh-Ann Brady who manages the Hospital but is leaving her post to start a new career.
“She has done a great job raising the profile of the Hospital and I wish her the very best.”
