Welfare of Wild Hedgehogs in Declining UK Populations

UK hedgehog populations have declined by over 50% since the 1950s, and multiple welfare threats require coordinated action.

Key Facts

UK hedgehog populations have fallen from 30 million in the 1950s to under 1 million
Road casualties, garden hazards, and habitat loss are primary decline drivers
Hedgehogs travel up to 2 km per night requiring connected garden networks
They hibernate and can die if disturbed during cold periods
Their insect prey has declined significantly due to agricultural intensification

Welfare Considerations

Hedgehogs face multiple welfare challenges in the modern UK landscape. Road casualties cause traumatic deaths for millions. Garden strimmers and mowers injure hedgehogs hiding in long grass. Bonfires built over hedgehogs cause horrific burns. Garden ponds without escape ramps cause drowning. Badger predation has increased in some areas. Physical injuries from these hazards cause immense suffering and most injured hedgehogs require rescue and rehabilitation before any chance of survival.

What You Can Do

Create hedgehog holes in garden fencing to allow movement between gardens
Check bonfires and long grass before burning or strimming
Install pond escape ramps so hedgehogs can exit water
Support hedgehog rescue organizations with donations or volunteering
Leave areas of wild garden providing insect habitat and foraging opportunity