A charity is calling on people to think of the animals this Christmas as the days get shorter and colder.

Secret World Wildlife Rescue is asking people and schools to get involved this festive season and send them shoeboxes filled with goodies which will help its team of animal carers look after their poorly patients this winter.

Learning and engagement officer, Ellie Wallace, said: “Making up a shoebox of enrichment and food is an easy and fun way to engage children and get them to think about the needs of wildlife.

“Christmas is a time for giving and we don’t want our animals to be forgotten about. It would be wonderful if they were able to enjoy a little treat during the festive season.”

They can then be sent to Secret World Wildlife Rescue, New Road, East Huntspill, Highbridge, TA9 3PZ.

Badger:

Dog meat (any variety)

Dog biscuits (any variety)

Custard creams (for weaning badgers)

Dog kong toy (for enrichment while they are at Secret World)

Peanuts

Fox:

Dog meat (any variety)

Dog biscuits (any variety)

Chew toy and Dog Kong toy (for enrichment at Secret World).

Hedgehog:

Cat meat (meat or poultry flavoured in jelly, no fish)

Cat biscuits (meat or poultry flavoured, no fish)

Fleece blanket

Vet bed

£15 for materials to build hedgehog shelters

Hay bale (a little big perhaps to fit in a shoebox but perfect for hibernating!)

Bird:

Fat balls

Wild bird seed

Peanuts

Dried mealworms

Bird feeders

Sunflower seeds

Plastic tweezers