RESIDENTS across Sedgemoor are being urged to take extra caution when going about their usual gardening routines to help protect hedgehogs.

More than 30 of the prickly animals have already been taken to Secret World wildlife rescue centre this month after being disturbed or injured by rakes, strimmers and other gardening or mechanical equipment.

The total number of hedgehogs taken to the Highbridge-based rescue centre now stands at over 270 this year.