Wild Hedgehog Disease Welfare | Animal Welfare Hub

Wild hedgehogs face a range of infectious diseases in addition to parasites - understanding disease welfare guides rehabilitation and conservation.

Key Facts

Lungworm, ringworm, and salmonella are common infections in UK wild hedgehogs
Hedgehog parvovirus has been identified as a significant cause of mortality in some populations
Echinococcus multilocularis has been detected in UK hedgehog populations
Wildlife rehabilitators treat arriving hedgehogs routinely for common parasites and infections
Disease burden is higher in urban hedgehogs with supplementary feeding creating dense populations
Biosecurity between garden hedgehog feeding stations reduces disease transmission risk

Welfare Considerations

Wild hedgehog disease welfare reflects both natural disease burdens and those exacerbated by urban conditions. Supplementary feeding that creates dense feeding aggregations can increase disease transmission. Using individual feeding stations, cleaning equipment regularly, and seeking rehabilitation for sick animals are the most practical welfare interventions.

What You Can Do

Clean hedgehog feeding stations and water bowls weekly to reduce disease transmission
Contact a local hedgehog rescue for any hedgehog showing signs of illness
Support British Hedgehog Preservation Society research into hedgehog disease welfare
Provide separate feeding areas if multiple hedgehogs visit to reduce aggregation
Wear gloves when handling hedgehogs to protect both the hedgehog and yourself