Rare European Hedgehog Rescued from 50-Foot Well in Udupi

Udupi – A rarely spotted European Hedgehog was safely rescued after falling into a 50-foot deep well in Guddeyangadi, located in Bommarabettu village, Hiriyadka. The successful operation was a joint effort by the Forest Department and local residents.

The incident was reported in the evening when local activist Vitin Hiriyadka alerted Zonal Forest Officer Prabhakar Kulal, who quickly responded by mobilizing a rescue team.

With persistent effort, the hedgehog was located approximately 20 feet down the well. Sunil from Neeraya, volunteering for the task, was lowered into the well and managed to safely capture the animal. His brave action drew appreciation from both locals and officials.

Sub-Zonal Forest Officer Veeresh, along with Forest Guards Praveen and Sridhar Naregal, actively took part in the rescue, which drew support from several community members.

After a health check confirmed that the hedgehog was unharmed, it was safely released into a protected forest nearby.

The European Hedgehog, rarely seen in this region, is a burrowing mammal known to inhabit soil and tree hollows. It feeds primarily on insects like ants and termites and is considered a rare species in both Asia and Europe.

This successful rescue highlights the value of community awareness and quick forest department action in conserving wildlife.

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