Northumbrian Water has enlisted the support of a specially trained sniffer dog to help it protect precious wildlife across its operational sites in the North East.
Over the past year, Bracken, the hedgehog-hunting Labrador, has been helping environmental teams by sniffing out the nocturnal foragers, as well as any nesting birds, as part of the company’s ecological surveys.
Four-year-old Bracken, who has the important role of ‘Wildlife Search Dog’, is deployed ahead of essential site maintenance activities, such as hedgerow cutting and vegetation clearing.
His sensitive nose helps identify any wildlife in the area making sure it’s protected and safely moved before any work begins.
He’s employed by Barrett Environmental Ltd, a specialist ecological consultancy, who work in partnership with Northumbrian Water to deliver surveys and ensure minimal impact on natural habitats.
Zoe Frogbrook, Head of Environmental and Sustainability at Northumbrian Water, said: "Protecting wildlife and conserving natural habitats is a key priority for us and we’re excited to be working with partners who use innovative solutions like this, to help us do just that.
“Bracken is detecting the presence of hidden animals, such as hedgehogs or nesting birds, which we might not always be able to spot, and by doing so he’s supporting our efforts to make sure we don’t impact the biodiversity on our sites.”
The four-legged finder who specialises in sniffing out hedgehogs, has been trained by his owner and handler, Trina Barrett, who he lives with in County Durham.
Trina, who holds a certificate as a Conservation Detection Dog Handler, has developed Bracken’s skills through lots of hands-on experience, being lucky to live in an area which has a healthy hedgehog population and lots of opportunities for training and practice.
Trina, Director of Barrett Environmental Ltd, said: “Bracken is a great work colleague who approaches every task with enthusiasm and genuinely loves what he does. His role isn’t only rewarding but also vital, by helping to detect and protect vulnerable species before any work begins.
“Outside of his role, he’s a much-loved pet who enjoys his walks, playtime, and being part of the family.”