Wildlife

Wild Hedgehog Bonfire and Garden Risk Prevention

Garden bonfires and garden tidying in autumn and winter pose serious risks to hedgehogs, which use leaf piles and brush heaps as hibernation sites.

Key Facts

Hedgehogs begin hibernating in October-November and emerge in March-April
Bonfire heaps are ideal hibernation sites and attract hedgehogs
An estimated 1,000+ hedgehogs are killed by bonfires annually in the UK
Strimmers and garden machinery also kill hedgehogs sheltering in vegetation
Ponds without escape ramps are a drowning hazard for hedgehogs

Welfare Considerations

Hedgehogs burned alive in bonfires suffer extreme trauma. Those disturbed during hibernation expend critical energy reserves and may not survive if unable to re-establish. Garden hazards represent preventable mortality that contributes to the 50% decline in UK hedgehog populations since 2000.

What You Can Do

Build bonfires on the day of burning, not in advance
Check bonfire heaps for hedgehogs before lighting using a torch
Create a purpose-built hedgehog habitat log pile away from burning areas