Tiggywinkles

Tiggywinkles is a wildlife hospital based in Haddenham, Buckinghamshire, England. It is dedicated to the rescue, care, and rehabilitation of British wildlife. The hospital was founded in 1983 by Les Stocker, MBE, his wife Sue Stocker, and their son Colin. It is named after Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle, a character from the Beatrix Potter stories, reflecting the hospital's initial focus on hedgehogs. Over the years, Tiggywinkles has grown to become the world's leading wildlife hospital, treating a wide range of species including birds, hedgehogs, badgers, deer, and foxes.

History

The story of Tiggywinkles began in the late 1970s when Les Stocker found an injured hedgehog and attempted to find care for it. Discovering a lack of wildlife rescue services, he and his family started to take in and care for injured wildlife in their own home. This passion project quickly grew, leading to the establishment of Tiggywinkles as a dedicated wildlife hospital in 1983. The hospital has since treated over 300,000 animals, becoming a pioneer in wildlife care and rehabilitation.

Mission and Services

The primary mission of Tiggywinkles is to rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured and sick wildlife, while also educating the public about wildlife conservation. The hospital operates a 24/7 emergency service, offering treatment and care to all British wildlife in need. In addition to its medical services, Tiggywinkles also engages in research and education, providing training on wildlife care for veterinary professionals and the public.

Facilities

Tiggywinkles is equipped with state-of-the-art medical facilities tailored to wildlife care, including operating theatres, X-ray suites, and intensive care units. The hospital also features specialized rehabilitation areas such as aviaries, mammal paddocks, and aquatic facilities to support the recovery of a wide range of species.

Education and Research

Education is a key part of Tiggywinkles' mission. The hospital offers a variety of educational programs aimed at increasing public awareness and understanding of wildlife issues. This includes school visits, workshops, and training courses for those interested in wildlife care and conservation.

Research is another important aspect of Tiggywinkles' work. The hospital collaborates with veterinary and wildlife conservation experts to improve wildlife medicine and rehabilitation techniques. This research not only benefits the animals treated at Tiggywinkles but also contributes to global wildlife conservation efforts.

Support and Funding

As a registered charity, Tiggywinkles relies on donations, membership fees, and volunteer support to operate. The hospital also runs a visitor centre, which includes educational displays about British wildlife and the work of Tiggywinkles, as a means of raising funds and awareness.

Conclusion

Tiggywinkles plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation in the UK, providing vital services for injured and sick wildlife. Through its dedication to care, rehabilitation, education, and research, Tiggywinkles continues to make a significant impact on wildlife conservation and animal welfare.

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