Gardeners are being advised not to rake up all the leaves in their outdoor spaces this autumn, as doing so could disturb an endangered animal. Leaving some piles of leaves in place offers two key benefits, according to guidance highlighted this November.
Why Leaves Are Good for Gardens
Leaves are beneficial to a garden. They break down into the soil and add vital nutrients to the ground, acting as a natural fertiliser that can boost next year's lawn, crops, and flowers.
However, they can become excessive if they carpet an entire lawn and block out light.
Hedgehogs at Risk From Bonfires
When raking up leaves - especially to burn them in a burner or bonfire - hedgehogs are in particular danger, as log piles and piles of leaves appear to be ideal places for shelter for them.
Wiltshire Wildlife Trust states: "Unfortunately, the native British mammals regularly fall foul of unchecked bonfires and are killed because of it."
The Trust adds: "Considering their recent classification as vulnerable to extinction on the Mammal Societies Red List, the warning for bonfire night is now more crucial than ever. Since 2007, numbers of wild hedgehogs in the UK have halved, and there are now thought to be fewer than a million left in the UK."
How Gardeners Can Help
The Trust advises gardeners to deliberately leave some piles of leaves and logs in their gardens to help hedgehogs this winter.
It added: "Leave wild areas in the garden, such as piles of leaves and logs. These make effective nests and attract the insects that hedgehogs need as part of their diet."
It also recommends: "Cover any drains or holes, and ensure any ponds or swimming pools have an escape route. Avoid using fruit netting as hedgehogs can become entangled in it."
The Trust even suggests that gardeners could buy or build a hedgehog house and ensure it is placed somewhere sheltered and well camouflaged with leaves, compost, or tree branches.
In any case, gardeners are being advised to be extra careful when sweeping up leaves and are being asked to do whatever they can to help hedgehogs avoid extinction.
