The Plight of Britain's Hedgehogs: A Call to Action
With their stubby legs, inquisitive snouts, and a formidable array of spines, hedgehogs possess an almost mythical charm, reminiscent of creatures from ancient folklore. Ecologist Hugh Warwick, affectionately known as "Hedgehog Hugh," emphasizes their status as the nation's favourite wild animal, consistently topping polls. However, these enchanting beings are facing severe threats that demand urgent attention.
Why Hedgehogs Need Our Help
Since the year 2000, the UK has witnessed a dramatic decline in rural hedgehog populations, with losses ranging from 30% to 75%. Intensive agricultural practices have led to significant habitat destruction, while the widespread use of agrochemicals, such as pesticides, has decimated the insect populations that hedgehogs rely on for food. Additionally, hedgehogs are highly vulnerable to road accidents, which claim an estimated 167,000 to 335,000 lives annually. Other dangers include strimmers and the impacts of climate change, such as warmer, wetter winters that can disrupt hibernation cycles. Despite these challenges, there is a glimmer of hope: Grace Johnson, hedgehog officer for the People's Trust for Endangered Species, notes stabilizing trends and early signs of recovery in urban and suburban areas, though continued support remains crucial.
Eight Ways to Support Hedgehog Conservation
1. Engage in Citizen Science
You can contribute to conservation efforts from the comfort of your home. The National Hedgehog Monitoring Programme utilizes camera footage to gather data on hedgehog numbers and requires volunteers to identify hedgehogs and other animals in video clips. Simply register for a MammalWeb account, select the NHMP project, and follow the provided guidance to start spotting wildlife.
2. Create Hedgehog Highways
Hedgehogs thrive in interconnected landscapes. By creating a 13x13cm gap in or under fences or walls, you can enable hedgehogs to move freely between gardens. This network of passages allows access to diverse resources like log piles, wildlife-friendly ponds, and compost heaps. Discuss with neighbours to gain their support and consider using signs to prevent accidental blockages.
3. Transform Your Garden into a Hedgehog Buffet
Hedgehogs have a varied diet that includes caterpillars, beetles, earwigs, and worms. To attract these insects, incorporate a mix of structures such as dense shrubs, wildflowers, ornamental grasses, and patches of bare soil. Features like log and leaf piles are excellent for fostering prey populations. Importantly, avoid pesticides, as chemicals like glyphosate can harm worms, a staple in hedgehog diets.
4. Provide Supplementary Food with Care
While supporting natural food sources is ideal, supplementary feeding can help hedgehogs during shortages. Offer kitten biscuits, which contain guaranteed meat percentages, and place them in a secure structure, such as an upturned plastic box with a hedgehog-sized entrance, to prevent access by other animals. Be cautious, as feeding can lead to artificial gatherings, increasing the risk of fights and disease transmission. Moving feeding stations regularly encourages natural foraging behavior.
5. Establish Hedgehog Havens
Hedgehogs require safe sleeping spots in addition to feeding areas. Create sheltered spaces with low, dense shrubs or install a hedgehog house in a quiet, shaded location. Provide deciduous leaves and twigs nearby for bedding materials to ensure comfort and protection.
6. Assist Injured Hedgehogs Responsibly
If you encounter a hedgehog during the day that appears disoriented, listless, or surrounded by flies, it may need help. Place it in a box and contact a hedgehog rescue immediately. However, note that female hedgehogs might be active during spring or summer while building nests, and winter sightings could indicate disturbed hibernation. For guidance, call the British Hedgehog Preservation Society or a local rescue center. When handling, use thick gloves and keep the hedgehog in a dark, quiet box with warmth from a warm water bottle to reduce stress.
7. Avoid Disturbing Hedgehogs
Hedgehogs are particularly vulnerable during hibernation and breeding seasons. Before engaging in gardening activities like clearing or mowing, conduct thorough checks to avoid harming them. Maintain wild areas undisturbed to provide safe habitats. Remember, hedgehogs are wild animals; avoid unnecessary handling and seek professional advice if concerned.
8. Advocate for Hedgehog Conservation
You don't need a garden to make a difference. Write to local councils to encourage wildlife-friendly management of public lands, such as incorporating hedgehog highways and log piles into parks. Sharing information on social media and discussing hedgehog conservation with friends can also raise awareness and support for these beloved creatures.
