Think of the animals when lighting those bonfires

Halloween and bonfire season will be here later this month. I would like to ask people to carefully check their bonfires before they are lit as small animals like hedgehogs, slow worms, toads/frogs and mice may be living and hibernating in your wood pile and could be burnt alive.

There may also be birds present! Please do not use a garden fork to pre-check the wood pile as this could kill and/or maim any small animals.

It would be advisable to build the bonfire just prior to lighting on the night rather than building a wood pile a few days before. If you’ve already made one, simply move it carefully to a nearby spot just before burning. If you find any hibernating hedgehogs or any other animals that you think need help please contact your nearest wildlife centre asap for advice on how to proceed.

Please also remember whilst fireworks are going off to keep all your pets indoors. Animals are absolutely terrified of loud bangs and bright lights, it may be helpful to put a radio or music on. Please give a thought to these poor animals during the bonfire season and remember how terrified they are.

Better still, celebrate without the fireworks and fires at all.

Bernie Wright

The Ward

Dublin