Wild Hedgehog Garden Welfare and Connectivity

Hedgehog populations are declining rapidly in the UK and garden habitats play an important role in their welfare and population connectivity.

Key Facts

UK hedgehog populations have declined by approximately 50% since the year 2000
Hedgehogs can travel 2-3 kilometres per night and require connected habitat across multiple gardens
Garden boundary walls and fences fragment hedgehog ranges and isolate populations
13 cm holes in garden fencing allow hedgehog passage while excluding most pets
Slug pellets containing metaldehyde (now banned) and methiocarb are toxic to hedgehogs
Bonfires built before lighting should be checked for sheltering hedgehogs
Artificial lighting may disrupt hedgehog foraging and navigation
Supplementary feeding with hedgehog-specific foods can support individuals but not replace habitat

Welfare Considerations

Individual hedgehogs in disconnected garden habitats face welfare challenges from isolation, reduced foraging territory, and exposure to hazards including garden chemicals and machinery. Hedgehogs unable to range adequately cannot find sufficient food, mates, or suitable hibernation sites. Garden improvements that increase connectivity and reduce chemical hazards directly improve hedgehog welfare. Community-level participation in creating hedgehog highways and reducing pesticide use can maintain viable local populations.

What You Can Do

Create a 13 cm hole in your fence or wall to allow hedgehog passage - the 'hedgehog highway'
Join the Hedgehog Street scheme to coordinate connectivity across your neighbourhood
Avoid slug pellets and other pesticides - use physical barriers or copper tape instead
Check bonfires before lighting and garden machinery before use
Leave areas of long grass and leaf litter as natural hibernation and nesting sites