Hedgehogs are at risk from a number of man-made garden hazards including bin bags, drains and fencing holes, and there are simple steps you can take to keep the little creatures safe this season.
One of the greatest threats to hedgehog safety when it comes to human-created obstacles is bin collection day. In their hunt for food, these small creatures will often rummage through rubbish. If bin bags are left on the ground outside, it is all too easy for hedgehogs to tear through and crawl inside.
This means they can become trapped, unable to find their way back out, or simply settle themselves in and then find themselves hurled into the back of a refuse lorry when collection day arrives. To prevent this from happening, never leave bags on the ground in your garden and make sure they go directly into the bin.
Cover drains and holes
Beyond the bins themselves, there are other easily overlooked hazards worth bearing in mind when it comes to safeguarding these nocturnal animals, one of which is ensuring your drains are kept covered. Hedgehogs can easily tumble into an open drain and quickly become stuck; by keeping them covered, you eliminate any chance of this occurring.
Also posing serious risks to hedgehogs are bean trenches, footings, fencing holes and car inspection pits, all of which can prove fatal. It is therefore essential to remain vigilant about these hazards throughout autumn and winter to ensure your garden remains as safe as possible.
Where covering these holes isn't an option, provide some form of escape route, with a sloping plank being the most effective solution. Further measures to protect hedgehogs include keeping shed, greenhouse and garage doors firmly shut at night, preventing them from sneaking inside to nest and becoming trapped.
Create hedgehog highways
One of the most straightforward ways to support hedgehogs and allow them to move freely between gardens and beyond is by creating so-called 'hedgehog highways'. By cutting square openings into your walls or fencing, you give hedgehogs the freedom to roam at will and pass through with ease.
This approach is endorsed by the British Hedgehog Preservation Society, who recommend cutting a 13x13cm (5x5") hole specifically designed for hedgehogs. Additionally, leaving a small gap beneath garden gates is advised to provide an even more accessible entry point.
Some garden enthusiasts choose to go one step further by painting the hedgehog holes in a contrasting colour to their fencing, or labelling them as a charming feature within their outdoor space.
