Volunteer Focus

Meet Ian: 34 Years of Wildlife Rescues

For over three decades, Ian from Seer Green, Buckinghamshire has been a dedicated volunteer wildlife rescuer for Tiggywinkles – and what a journey it’s been. Alongside his wife Kathleen, who often lends a hand, Ian has spent the last 34 years responding to callouts in all weathers, day and night, rescuing trapped, injured and vulnerable wild animals and bringing them safely to our hospital.

His story began unexpectedly when, during his work with the Bucks Badger Group, he came across an injured badger. After taking it to a vet, he was told about Tiggywinkles. When he brought the badger in, our reception team asked if he’d like to help with more rescues—and from there, his lifelong commitment to wildlife care began.

Ian is now a much-loved part of our team. He’s formed strong friendships with staff, especially our Head Wildlife Nurse, Sharon, with whom he shares a great sense of humour—even in the most stressful situations. “Between the chaos and the scratches, we do find time to have a laugh—usually at ourselves.” he jokes, reflecting on the emotional rollercoaster that comes with wildlife rescue.

He’s responded to calls in all conditions, including a Christmas Day rescue during the Covid lockdown, when he and Kathleen rushed out to help an injured fox in someone’s garden. His dedication knows no bounds. He’s been out in snow, rain, and late-night darkness—sometimes wearing his pyjamas underneath his overalls, ready to leap into action at a moment’s notice.

One of Ian’s most memorable rescues was dubbed Operation Bambi by rail staff. A deer had been hit by a train near Chorleywood Station, and rescuing it required careful coordination with railway operators. Ian was given a 4½-minute window during which trains were stopped and power to the tracks was cut. Working quickly, he hauled the large deer into the cab of the train to get it to safety.

Another rescue involved a rare whiskered bat that bit him before flying off! “It’s all part of the job,” he laughs. “They don’t know you’re trying to help.”

With years of experience behind him, Ian’s car is now fully stocked with rescue essentials: towels, crates, stretchers, fencing cutters, gloves, and treatment sprays. His granddaughter has even started to help on rescues, proudly following in his footsteps.

Ian is proud to represent Tiggywinkles, often receiving donations from grateful members of the public after a rescue. “People are so relieved when you arrive,” he says. “Sometimes they’re in tears. It means a lot to be able to help.”

He’s even had the honour of visiting Buckingham Palace to meet King Charles, who recognised the name Tiggywinkles as “the hedgehog hospital.” Ian, of course, politely corrected him: “Actually, we treat all species of British wildlife, Your Majesty.”

But it’s the moment of release that Ian loves most. “Badgers will often stop and look back at you before running off. That’s the best bit.”

His advice to future volunteers? “Go for it—but be careful! It’s one of the most rewarding things you can do, at any age.”

Thank you, Ian – for your tireless dedication, compassion, and 34 years of helping us help them.

If you’re passionate about wildlife and ready to make a difference, we’d love to welcome you to our volunteer team. Find out more at tiggywinkles.com/volunteer