Wildlife Welfare

Wild Hedgehog Bonfire Safety

Bonfire night poses severe welfare risks to hedgehogs that shelter in bonfire materials. Simple precautions prevent death and serious injury to these vulnerable animals.

Key Facts

Hedgehogs commonly shelter in the dry materials typical of bonfire construction
Animals caught in bonfires face severe burns and death
Building bonfires on the day of lighting eliminates the risk of animals sheltering
Checking bonfires carefully with a torch before lighting saves lives
Alternatively moving bonfire materials to a new location immediately before lighting is effective

Welfare Considerations

Bonfire deaths represent severe, preventable welfare harm. The simple action of building bonfires on the day or checking carefully before lighting prevents hedgehogs from suffering agonising deaths.

What You Can Do

Build bonfires on the day of lighting to prevent animals sheltering
Check carefully with a torch before lighting any pre-built bonfire
Consider moving bonfire materials immediately before lighting
Spread awareness about bonfire safety in your community