Bald Hedgehog 'Ollie' Becomes Internet Sensation, Raises Thousands for Wildlife Charity

A hedgehog named Ollie, discovered with a severe lack of prickles, has become an internet phenomenon after being rescued by the animal charity 'Prickles in a Pickle'. Vets identified ringworm and a bacterial infection as the cause of the prickle loss, which had led to painful crusting on Ollie's skin and bleeding around his mouth.

A Difficult Recovery

The warmer weather in the UK in recent months is cited as a reason why infections like ringworm are persisting, unlike in typical years when winter frost would eliminate them. Ollie's recovery has been slow, and despite now being able to eat independently, he is not yet ready for release.

Ollie's unique appearance has resonated with a vast online audience, with millions of viewers comparing him to a jacket potato, an avocado, or a rolled-up sock. Judy Thomson, co-founder of the charity, described the severity of the crusting around Ollie's face, stating, "Every time he opened his mouth, he bled. So it was very painful for him."

Viral Fame and Fundraising Success

To address Ollie's condition, the charity had to adopt unconventional treatment methods, as animals can develop resistance to standard veterinary treatments. Since gaining viral fame, Ollie has become the "poster hog" for the charity's fundraising campaign. The widespread online attention has helped raise nearly £5,000 for the organization.

'Prickles in a Pickle,' run by Judy Thomson and her partner Alan Pook, faces significant annual costs of £65,000 to £70,000. The charity has seen a dramatic increase in the number of hedgehogs they care for, growing from approximately 40 annually seven years ago to over 1,000 per year, with up to 200 hedgehogs residing at their facility at any given time.

Thomson emphasized the importance of helping prickle-less hedgehogs, as they are unable to defend themselves. She also highlighted the significance of British wildlife, urging the public to support local rescues and to contact them if they are concerned about a hedgehog. Hedgehogs are typically only seen during the day if they are unwell, with the exception of a mother building her nest.