Hedgehog Road Crossing Infrastructure and Garden Access

Hedgehog populations have declined by over 30% since 2000. Road mortality and garden fragmentation are significant drivers that targeted infrastructure can address.

Key Facts

UK hedgehog numbers have fallen from an estimated 30 million in the 1950s to under 1 million
Road mortality is estimated at over 100,000 hedgehogs annually in the UK
Hedgehogs require territories of 20-100 hectares that span multiple properties
13cm x 13cm gaps in fence panels allow hedgehog movement between gardens
Hedgehog Highway projects connect gardens through formal neighbour networks

Welfare Considerations

Individual hedgehogs killed on roads die slowly from traumatic injury if not killed instantly. Fragmented garden networks force hedgehogs onto roads as they seek mates, food and winter hibernation sites across their range. Garden fence panels without gaps create impermeable barriers across hedgehog territory. Simple modifications — a 13cm hole at fence base level — restore hedgehog access while maintaining garden security for pets. Dedicated underpasses at known hedgehog road crossing points provide infrastructure-level solutions where road widening has eliminated natural safe crossing options.

What You Can Do

Cut or drill 13cm x 13cm holes at fence base level to connect your garden to neighbours
Register as a Hedgehog Street and recruit neighbouring gardens to create connected networks
Drive slowly on rural lanes at night especially in spring and autumn
Clear drain covers that trap hedgehogs — fit covers with escape ramps or close openings
Create log piles, leaf heaps and undisturbed corners as hibernation habitat