A groundbreaking study has shed light on the secret nightlife of hedgehogs in British gardens, providing vital insights into the survival of this vulnerable species.
Researchers from Nottingham Trent University and Chester Zoo equipped over 400 households in Chester with wildlife cameras, allowing them to observe the nocturnal activities of hedgehogs. The findings reveal that these spiny mammals are making more frequent appearances in urban gardens, which are becoming increasingly important habitats as their populations decline in rural areas.
The study, published in the journal Urban Ecosystems, analysed thousands of images to determine the factors that influence hedgehogs’ visits. The presence of food proved to be the biggest draw, but the researchers emphasise that providing wildlife-friendly features, such as patches of wildflowers, native plants, leaf litter, and log piles, is essential for these creatures to find space to hibernate and breed.
“The pattern we’ve seen is that hedgehog populations in rural areas have declined – gardens seem like a really important habitat – so it’s really important that people are aware of that,” said lead researcher Kelly Hitchcock from Nottingham Trent University and Chester Zoo.
The research comes as increasing numbers of hedgehogs require assistance from rescue charities, as they lose their natural habitats. Sarah Liney of the Hedgehog Helpline in South Wales warns that any hedgehog spotted during the day or showing signs of injury is a cause for concern.
“If we can release a healthy hedgehog back into the wild, to be the hedgehog it is supposed to be, and it can produce or help to produce more litters, then at least that is going to help with the hedgehog population to continue for years to come within our country,” Liney said.
Conservation biologist Dr. Rebecca Thomas of Royal Holloway, University of London, who was not involved in the study, emphasises the growing importance of gardens as habitats for hedgehogs. “The best thing people can do for hedgehogs in gardens is to create wild spaces for them – areas where they can over-winter, mate, live happily, and hopefully we can keep the populations going in these suburban environments,” she said.
The researchers caution that while providing food can be beneficial, it should be done with care, using appropriate options like cat biscuits and maintaining good hygiene to avoid the spread of disease among the hedgehog population.
This groundbreaking study underscores the vital role that British gardens play in the conservation of hedgehogs, a species facing declining numbers in rural areas. By creating wildlife-friendly habitats and being mindful of their needs, individuals can make a significant contribution to the survival of these spiny nocturnal neighbours.
