With wildlife declining at an alarming rate across the UK, the Trust is working to create 30% more space for nature, helping species recover and adapt to climate change.

The refreshed adoption scheme launches with two much-loved species: hedgehogs and owls. Supporters can choose either a digital adoption package, featuring a certificate, species facts and downloadable images, or a beautifully presented physical pack containing information and carefully selected gifts.

Available online and at the Trust's visitor centres at Northumberlandia and Hauxley, the packs make an ideal gift for wildlife enthusiasts of all ages.

Every adoption directly supports the Trust's conservation work, including managing nature reserves, creating new habitats, and delivering educational activities that inspire people to protect wildlife.

Both species face significant challenges. Tawny owls remain on the Amber List of Birds of Conservation Concern due to declines linked to habitat loss and a shortage of suitable nesting sites. Meanwhile, hedgehog populations have fallen dramatically in both urban and rural areas, affected by habitat fragmentation, intensive agriculture, road traffic, and other human-related pressures.

In this region, there are hedgehogs on the majority of the Trust’s reserves and long eared owls at West Chevington, little owls at Druridge Pools, tawny owls at Cresswell, East Chevington, Hauxley, Briarwood Banks and Fencerhill Wood in Newcastle, barn owls at Cresswell, Benshaw Moor, Big Waters and Northumberlandia and short eared owls across the whole of the Druridge Bay area over the winter.

Hollie French, Northumberland Wildlife Trust Fundraising Officer says:

“Although we have hedgehogs and the full range of local owl species across the wide range of our reserves, it is something we would never take for granted.

“Our work is relentless and any help the public gives us is very much appreciated which is why the Adopt an Animal scheme is so important to us.

“Not only will the scheme provide much needed funding, the hedgehog or owl adoption pack will give us the opportunity to tell people more about the animal they are adopting - where to see and hear them, what they eat and what they can do to help conserve them.”

Adopt today at www.nwt.org.uk/shop