Wildlife

Urban Hedgehog Population Decline

Hedgehog populations have declined by over 50% since 2000 in the UK, with urban hedgehogs now declining more steeply than their rural counterparts.

Key Facts

The UK hedgehog population has fallen from 36 million in the 1950s to under 1 million
Urban hedgehogs roam up to 2 km nightly and require connected garden networks
Garden fencing without gaps traps hedgehogs and fragments habitat
Slug pellets containing metaldehyde cause hedgehog poisoning and death
Bonfire building is a significant cause of hedgehog mortality in autumn

Welfare Considerations

Hedgehog welfare is affected by road mortality, secondary poisoning, entanglement in garden netting, and bonfire deaths. Garden fragmentation by solid fencing prevents natural ranging behaviour and reduces access to food and mates. Simple garden modifications including 13cm fence gaps, pond exits, and wildlife-friendly pest control dramatically improve urban hedgehog survival.

What You Can Do

Make a 13cm gap in garden fences and walls for hedgehog access
Check bonfires for hedgehogs before lighting
Switch to wildlife-safe slug control methods
Provide water and supplementary food in dry weather
Join Hedgehog Street and log your hedgehog activity to track populations