With autumn bringing shorter days, the UK's 15 million dog owners are being urged to make simple changes to protect hedgehogs from harm in their own gardens. By September 30, sunset falls at 6.48 pm, and after the clocks change on October 25, it will set at 4.50 pm, meaning many dogs will be let out into the garden in twilight or total darkness.
Hedgehogs at risk from dogs after dark
British Hedgehogs has warned that this vulnerable garden species could be terrorised by dogs at a time of year when they are also often raising their young hoglets. The charity advises: "Keep dogs under control if you know you have hedgehogs in the garden. Also, remember that whilst your dog may be hedgehog-friendly, visitors' dogs may not. If in doubt, keep your dog on a lead when it goes out into the garden after dark."
Even if no hedgehog has been seen, they may still be living in the garden. Signs of their presence include nocturnal snuffling sounds, dark droppings, shallow zigzagging lines across top soil, and tiny hedgehog footprints.
Tips for keeping hedgehogs safe
The organisation has also shared other tips to protect the hedgehog population. It said: "Keep bags used for putting out household rubbish off the ground. This will prevent hedgehogs reaching them and tearing the bag. They can become trapped in the rubbish or even put out for refuse collection. Keep drains covered so that hedgehogs do not fall in and get stuck.
"Bean trenches, footings, fencing holes and car inspection pits are all potential death traps for hedgehogs. Provide an escape route, e.g. a sloping plank, or cover the holes so hedgehogs do not become trapped. Keep shed, greenhouse and garage doors closed at night so that hedgehogs are not tempted to make a nest inside them, and potentially become trapped when doors are permanently closed. Store chemicals safely.
"When replacing or installing walls or fencing provide 13x13cm (5×5") square holes so that hedgehogs can pass from your garden into your neighbours' gardens without difficulty. Only use environmentally safe wood preservatives on your fences, garden furniture and wooden buildings."
