A major step forward for hedgehog conservation
The State of Britain’s Hedgehogs 2022 report, published by People’s Trust for Endangered Species (PTES) and the British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS), revealed that the UK’s hedgehogs have declined by between 30-75% in rural areas since 2000. We stepped into action to identify the key threats these hedgehogs are facing, how the threats are connected and how we can address them.
With our partners BHPS, and over 30 leading conservation NGOs, academics, educational institutions, hedgehog rehabilitators and organisations within the transport and farming sectors*, we collaborated to create a national strategy that will guide the change that’s desperately needed. Thanks to this collaboration, the first ever National Hedgehog Conservation Strategy has been published.
New research on hedgehogs
We identified key threats to hedgehogs – including habitat fragmentation and a decrease in natural invertebrate prey – and how to overcome them. As new research findings become available, the strategy will evolve and strengthen existing conservation efforts. It will also act as a framework between policymakers, conservationists, landowners, rehabilitators and communities. This is so important as coordinated efforts nationally, regionally and locally are the only way we can ensure that this iconic native species becomes a common sight in our towns and countryside once again. The strategy also complements the National Hedgehog Monitoring Programme, launched earlier this year by PTES and BHPS, which will provide invaluable data on population changes at a local and national level.
Encouragingly, the State of Britain’s Hedgehogs 2022 report indicated that, although rural hedgehog populations are still in decline, hedgehogs in urban areas may be starting to recover, likely thanks to our amazing Hedgehog Champions and the wider public who have made their gardens and local green spaces hedgehog havens. We need this urban recovery to continue, but we also need to see this positive trajectory take place in the countryside too.
How you can help hedgehogs at home
There are numerous ways you can continue to help hedgehogs – especially as autumn sets in and they look ahead to hibernation.
For those with a garden, creating 13cm x 13cm square holes in or under a garden fence – known as Hedgehog Highways – to connect neighbouring gardens, is the best starting point. This is crucial as it allows hedgehogs, which are nocturnal, to move between green spaces searching for food, shelter and mates. Once connected, creating wild patches, providing water and places to nest such as leaf and log piles or a hedgehog house, are all great ways to help. And, as autumn draws in, it’s paramount to check for hedgehogs before lighting any bonfires or before mowing or strimming the garden.
No garden? You can still help! Contact local councils and developers to highlight the importance of managing public green spaces for hedgehogs and ask that new-build sites are hedgehog friendly. You can help raise awareness of the urgent need to help hedgehogs by sharing PTES and BHPS’ guidance and social media posts, and talk with friends, family, neighbours and colleagues about ways they can help hedgehogs. And you could becoming a volunteer ‘spotter’ for the National Hedgehog Monitoring Programme – you don’t even need to leave the house!