Wildlife Welfare

Wild Hedgehog Population Monitoring

Hedgehog population monitoring through citizen science and systematic surveys provides data essential for conservation and welfare planning.

Key Facts

The People's Trust for Endangered Species runs the annual Big Hedgehog Map recording scheme
Camera trap monitoring allows non-invasive population assessment in gardens and green spaces
Footprint tunnel surveys provide presence/absence data at low cost
Long-term monitoring data from PTES shows continued urban decline despite garden feeding
Research programs including hedgehog tracking projects reveal habitat use and welfare threats

Welfare Considerations

Monitoring hedgehog populations is the foundation of evidence-based conservation and welfare intervention. Citizen science recording generates the data needed to target conservation resources where they are most needed.

What You Can Do

Record hedgehog sightings on the Big Hedgehog Map or equivalent platform
Set up a camera trap in your garden to monitor hedgehog presence
Volunteer for local hedgehog monitoring surveys to contribute population data