THIS year's unseasonably mild temperatures have left the country's animals in a daze.

With the hottest autumn on record and temperatures still staying well above average the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust has had reports of animals behaving oddly.

It comes after the Met Office revealed that 2006 is on course to be the hottest year ever - smashing records dating back to 1659.

All over Swindon there have been strange wildlife sightings.

WWT wildlife project officer, Jo Sayers, saw a common darter dragonfly at the Swindon sewage works, and a swarm of midges at the sewage works at Waterhay.

"These are sights you'd expect to see in June, not December," she said.

"The trust has also had reports of ash trees coming into leaf, celandines and snowdrops pushing up their leaves months early, and hedgehogs foraging on lush lawns long after they should have been in hibernation."

But the WWT is particularly concerned for the welfare of hedgehogs. "I'm one of several people who have seen dead baby hedgehogs," said Ms Sayers.

"This may mean that some hedgehogs have had a second litter.

"Humans can feed their young and keep them warm at any time of year, but animals have evolved to breed when the weather is warm and there's plenty of food about.

"Young hedgehogs need to feed themselves up to survive hibernation, if they're born in late autumn when there is less food about, they stand very little chance."

If you find a baby hedgehog put a box stuffed with newspaper or hay in your shed for hedgehogs to rest or hibernate in.

It's also a good idea to leave a container of fresh water and a small saucer of dog or cat food, but never bread and milk - which can make them very ill - nearby.

Mrs Sayers added: "By doing this, you'll be playing your part in helping Wiltshire's hedgehogs survive a confusing and potentially deadly season."

And it doesn't look like the weather is about to change in time for the festive season.

With just nine days to go until the big day the Met Office is not predicting a white Christmas.

This year has been warming up as the effects of global warming tighten its grip on the world.

But the record is not expected to last long as forecasters predict 2007 will be even hotter.

If you find a hedgehog in your garden call a WWT volunteer on 01380 725670, ext 359, or email wio@wiltshirewildlife.org.uk and they will provide advice on how to care for it.

If it seems injured or unwell, contact the Wiltshire Wildlife Hospital on 01980 629470, emergencies 07850 778752, or email enquiries@wilts-wildlife-hosp.org.uk.

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