Where Hedgehogs Come First
WHO ARE WE?
At Burntisland Hedgehog Haven, we are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of our spikey friends. Our mission is to care for orphaned, sick and injured hedgehogs until they are fit to be released back into the wild. Part of our mission is to educate the public on how to create a safe space in their own garden.
We aim to inspire a culture of compassion and empathy towards animals.
We envisage a society where all hedgehogs have a safe and nurturing haven, free from danger, abuse and harm.
We aim to assist with research into behavioural habits of hedgehogs and to ascertain the best methods of assisting their survival.
We are a registered rehabilitator for the British Hedgehog Preservation Society and also a member of the British Wildlife Rehabilitation Council. We follow all their up to date guidance.
WHAT DO WE DO?
WE LOVE HEDGEHOGS
Our Impact
To treat orphaned, sick and injured hedgehogs so that they can return back to the wild where they can reproduce which will help repopulate areas in turn helping to stop the decline in the hedgehog population.
We would like to create an environment which is hedgehog friendly so we encourage adults and children to respect our wildlife and environment by supplying information, giving talks on what they can do practically which in turn fosters an interest in hedgehogs and the hedgehogs natural habitat.
A world where hedgehogs thrive in safe, natural habitats, free from the threats of human encroachment, with communities educated, empowered, and inspired to protect and coexist with the UK’s only spiky mammal.
Compassion and Care
The rescue prioritises the well-being of hedgehogs, providing medical care, shelter, and food for injured, sick, or orphaned hedgehogs. We emphasise kindness, empathy, and respect for all animals in our care.
Conservation and Advocacy
Our hedgehog rescue is committed to raising awareness about the threats to hedgehog populations in the wild, such as habitat loss, road traffic, and climate change. We work to educate the public about hedgehog conservation and promote efforts to protect these animals in their natural environment.
Rescue and Rehabilitation
Our fundamental value is rescuing hedgehogs in need, particularly those that are injured, sick, or in danger. The goal is to rehabilitate them and return them to the wild when possible.
Education and Awareness
Educating the public about hedgehog care, their natural behavior, and how to safely support hedgehogs in gardens or as pets is a priority. This could include workshops, informational materials, and outreach programs.
Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility
Many hedgehog rescues are also committed to operating in an environmentally responsible way, minimising their ecological footprint and encouraging others to take action in ways that support wildlife, such as creating hedgehog-friendly gardens or reducing pesticide use.
Community Involvement and Support
We work within our community, encouraging volunteerism, fostering a spirit of collaboration, and supporting individuals who find hedgehogs in distress. They often rely on donations, fostering, and volunteers to help with day-to-day operations.
Nonprofit Integrity
Being a nonprofit Scottish Registered Charity, the rescue adheres to principles of honesty, transparency, and accountability in managing funds and resources. We ensure that all donations go toward the rescue’s mission and programs.
What People Say
“I phoned Burntisland Hedgehog Haven today, 3 October, because I was concerned about two hedgehogs that live in our garden. I phoned the Haven to get some information about hogs that are living in our hog houses.
The gentleman gave me so much information about the habitat, hibernation, food and other information which was second to none. We feel more confident having hogs in our garden after our conversation. A massive thanks to the Haven.”
“Sharon has given me the best advice and support for the 3 babies I rescued in my garden, all too small to survive the winter. She certainly knows her stuff and cares a lot for them.”
“I learned today that, in the short time this organisation has been active, they have saved the lives of thirty of these endangered creatures. Plenty more will be saved I am sure.”
“Sharon gives the very best possible care to the Hedgehogs in her charge. Keeping in mind at all times that these are wild animals who should return to their natural habitat as quickly as possible.
Always keeps finders up to date and returns to the place the Hedgehog came from wherever possible.”
“We gave recognition to this wonderful charity for the extra extraordinary things they do for hedgehogs. Sharon and Andy work tirelessly to rescue and rehabilitate this endangered species. Having been awarded highly commended in our northern region, we chose them for our Animal All Star award.”
“I recently rescued a wee hog and phoned Burntisland Hedgehog Haven for some advice. Within the hour they came to pick him up. Both were fantastic and it was clear they love the work that they do. Fantastic charity - thank you both for dedicating your time to saving these amazing wee animals”
“In February 2024 I came across a hedgehog in the middle of a main road whilst out walking, fearful for the wee creature I managed to secure it in a dark food waste bin and immediately took to my phone seeking a rescue service and found Burntisland Hedgehog Haven based in Fife. I spoke to Sharon who immediately urged me to bring the little hedgehog in and asked that I wrap a hot water bottle in a towel and place it in the box and take it in to them. On arriving I was welcomed into the rescue where Sharon took my details and that of the Hedgehog, He was weighed and checked over and placed in an incubator to warm up and start his care by this dedicated team. I was amazed with their facility and the professionalism and guidance offered by Sharon and Andy. I got to name the wee soul and Sharon kept me updated on Sammie's progress, which was touch and go for a good wee while”
“As we were walking across Burntisland on a sunny May evening, my partner spotted a hedgehog on the pavement. We knew that they are usually nocturnal, so we went over for a look and, as well as being out in broad daylight, the poor thing was just standing there shaking and had a big lump on his face. He didn’t curl up when we approached or even try to move away from us, so we knew he was in trouble. Luckily, we’d only just read about the new hedgehog rescue in the local paper a couple of days before, so we found the contact details and called it in.”
Our organisation truly believes that by working together, we can save more hedgehogs than ever before.
Licence number FC355 granted to Sharon Longhurst by Fife Council.
27 Fidra Avenue,
Burntisland
Fife
KY3 0BE
Tel: 07577 000328
© Copyright 2025 – Burntisland Hedgehog Haven
“This is the most professional hedgehog rescuer l've ever met in Fife. They are far more superior than another one I've attended in the past in Fife. The Burntisland Haven is immaculate and all the hedgehogs are so well cared for. It's absolutely amazing. The people who run it are so kind and kept me informed of the young hedgehog I found. If I hadn't taken him to this sanctuary he would have died. And I've been informed that he'll be ready for release back in to the wild very soon. I cannot recommend enough.”