In the quiet of a Hove garden, a unique resident is preparing for the colder months. This is the story of Houdini, a three-legged hedgehog whose remarkable resilience has captured the hearts of his human neighbours.
The Great Escape Artist's Journey
Houdini first appeared on a garden trail camera in Hove, East Sussex, three years ago. The footage revealed a distressing injury: a partially missing leg with exposed bone. His namesake, the legendary escapologist Harry Houdini, proved fitting when he twice evaded capture attempts before finally being secured and taken to Hurst Hedgehog Haven in Burgess Hill for urgent care.
Veterinarians were surprised he had survived such a severe wound, which also included a small piece missing from his nose. Following treatment, the remainder of the damaged leg was amputated. After recovering, he was released back into the local area, where he became a familiar, if vulnerable, sight.
A Vulnerable Life in the 'Halfway House'
Now believed to be at least eight years old – indicated by the loss of pigment and his bright pink nose – Houdini faces challenges beyond his missing limb. His age and occasional bouts of staring into space make him susceptible to being picked up by concerned members of the public. This has led to multiple returns to the rescue centre, including a recent incident where he was found sleeping under a car.
With natural food scarce in winter and the constant threat from roads, his primary carer, Kate Bradbury, made a decision. "I've had to lock him in the garden," she explains. This secure space acts as a halfway house between the rescue centre and the wild, providing a dry bed of straw and ample food. The goal is to offer him the illusion of wildness with necessary protection.
An Uncertain Future and a Community Effort
The plan for Houdini after winter remains unclear. The hope among Kate and her neighbours is to create a larger, enclosed space for him by spring, allowing more room to roam. This would also accommodate other hedgehogs in need. For now, the focus is on seeing him safely through to March.
His story underscores the delicate balance in wildlife rehabilitation. Not all hedgehogs hibernate, and those with disabilities require extra vigilance. Houdini's tale is one of survival against the odds, a testament to the dedication of local rescue centres and the individuals who step in to help. As Kate simply puts it, reflecting the worry and affection he inspires: "He's such a worry. I love him."
