Wild Hedgehog Population Decline and Welfare

Hedgehog populations have declined dramatically in the UK and Europe, with road traffic, habitat loss, and garden fragmentation as major drivers requiring urgent action.

Key Facts

UK hedgehog populations have declined by more than 50% since the year 2000
Road traffic accidents kill an estimated 100,000 hedgehogs per year in the UK alone
Hedgehogs travel up to 2km per night and require connected green spaces
Pesticide use reduces invertebrate prey and causes direct toxicity through slug pellets
Garden walls and fences create impenetrable barriers to hedgehog movement

Welfare Considerations

Road traffic mortality causes traumatic deaths and injuries, with hedgehogs that curl defensively being particularly vulnerable. Injured hedgehogs reaching wildlife hospitals frequently have severe head trauma, crush injuries, and secondary infections. Habitat fragmentation traps hedgehogs in sub-optimal areas with insufficient food. The decline represents not just population loss but the ongoing suffering and poor welfare of remaining individuals trying to survive in increasingly hostile environments.

What You Can Do

Cut a 13cm gap in garden fences to create hedgehog highways
Stop using slug pellets and other pesticides that harm hedgehogs and their prey
Create wild areas in gardens with leaf piles and log heaps for nesting
Drive carefully at night especially in residential areas where hedgehogs are active
Support your local hedgehog rescue centre through volunteering or donations