Wildlife

Wild Hedgehog Urban Ecology and Welfare

Hedgehog populations are declining across the UK, with urban gardens now representing an important refuge requiring active management for their welfare.

Key Facts

UK hedgehog numbers have fallen by over 50% since the 1950s
Urban hedgehogs now have higher survival rates than their rural counterparts
Garden connectivity through 13cm holes in fences is a priority for hedgehog access
Hedgehogs hibernate from October to March, with welfare implications for timing
Slug pellets containing metaldehyde are toxic to hedgehogs and banned in the UK

Welfare Considerations

Hedgehogs face welfare risks from garden hazards including netting, strimmers, bonfires, and ponds. Metaldehyde poisoning causes suffering before death. Creating hedgehog-friendly gardens with connected spaces, water sources, and reduced pesticide use significantly improves individual hedgehog welfare.

What You Can Do

Make a hedgehog hole (13cm square) in garden fences to allow movement
Avoid slug pellets and other garden chemicals harmful to hedgehogs
Leave leaf piles and log stacks as hibernation and invertebrate habitat