Wildlife

Wild Hedgehog Population Decline and Urban Solutions

UK hedgehog populations have declined by over 50% since 2000. Urban areas now represent important refuges, making garden-friendly practices a meaningful welfare intervention.

Key Facts

Hedgehog numbers fell from 30 million in the 1950s to under 1 million by 2020
Urban hedgehog populations are declining less fast than rural populations
Garden boundaries prevent hedgehog foraging movements of up to 2 km per night
Slug pellets containing metaldehyde have been banned due to wildlife harm

Welfare Considerations

Hedgehog welfare in urban areas is improved by creating connected garden networks, removing physical barriers between gardens, and eliminating pesticide use. Garden ponds with escape ramps prevent drowning.

What You Can Do

Cut a 13 cm hole in garden fences to connect hedgehog corridors
Register your garden with Hedgehog Street to map local corridor networks
Avoid using any pesticides - slug pellets harm hedgehogs directly