Wildlife

Hedgehog Garden Pond Safety

Domestic garden ponds present a drowning risk for hedgehogs, with simple modifications able to prevent unnecessary wildlife casualties.

Key Facts

Hedgehogs can swim but cannot exit steep-sided ponds and drown
Garden ponds are among the top causes of hedgehog mortality in domestic gardens
Simple ramps or sloping edges give hedgehogs an exit route
Pond covers can exclude wildlife while maintaining aesthetic value
Creating wildlife-friendly gardens benefits multiple species beyond hedgehogs

Welfare Considerations

Drowning is a preventable cause of hedgehog death in domestic gardens. Adding a simple exit ramp costs almost nothing and can save hedgehog lives annually. The modification also benefits other small mammals and amphibians that may enter pond areas.

What You Can Do

Install a pond ramp or sloping edge in any garden pond
Share information about pond safety with neighbours and garden groups
Create a hedgehog-friendly garden with log piles, leaf heaps and hedgehog highways