Hedgehog numbers in the UK have declined by up to half since the year 2000. It is now estimated that there are fewer than 1 million left. Hedgehogs begin to hibernate from November. Bonfire night can be a dangerous time for hedgehogs. Bonfires tend to be made from natural materials which hedgehogs use to hibernate in. The University is a Gold award accredited Hedgehog Friendly Campus and we want to share with our community some tips on how to avoid harming hedgehogs this bonfire night:
Hedgehogs are nocturnal mammals and, if seen out during daylight hours, may be in trouble. If you see a hedgehog out during the day, contact the British Hedgehog Preservation Society on 01584 890801 for advice and (if required) details of your nearest hedgehog rescue.
You can learn more about hedgehogs and become a part of hedgehog community by becoming a hedgehog champion. If you have a hedgehog in your garden, don’t forget to mark it on the big hedgehog map.