Wildlife

Hedgehog Garden Welfare: What the Science Says

Science-based guide to supporting hedgehog welfare in gardens -- what interventions actually work.

Key Facts

Hedgehog populations have declined by an estimated 50% since 2000 in the UK
Gardens are increasingly important refuges as hedgehogs decline in wider countryside
Research shows hedgehogs travel up to 2km per night -- garden connectivity is critical
Hedgehog holes in garden fencing (13cm x 13cm) significantly increase population connectivity
Slug pellets containing metaldehyde were banned in 2022 due to wildlife harm including hedgehog poisoning
Ferric phosphate slug pellets are safer for hedgehogs but should still be used sparingly
Supplementary feeding with wet cat or dog food provides a welfare boost especially in spring
Garden ponds without exit ramps cause hedgehog drowning -- adding a ramp is a simple welfare intervention

Welfare Significance

Hedgehog welfare in gardens is now well-evidenced. The combination of habitat fragmentation, slug pellet poisoning, road mortality, and summer drought affecting earthworm availability creates multiple welfare pressures on individuals. Simple garden interventions -- hedgehog holes, wildlife ponds with exits, slug pellet elimination, and supplementary feeding -- have measurable population-level benefits.

What You Can Do

Make a hedgehog hole in your garden fence or wall -- 13cm x 13cm is the right size
Eliminate slug pellet use -- use physical barriers, beer traps, or ferric phosphate as last resort
Add a ramp or rough textured exit to any garden pond
Provide supplementary wet cat or dog food (meat not fish) from spring through autumn