The RSPCA has issued a heartfelt plea to gardeners across the UK, urging them to take a simple yet impactful step to protect hedgehogs: drilling small holes in their garden fences. These tiny passageways can make a world of difference for these beloved spiky creatures, allowing them to roam freely between gardens in search of food and mates.
Why Hedgehogs Need Our Help
Hedgehog populations in the UK have declined dramatically in recent decades, with estimates suggesting a drop of over 30% in urban areas and 50% in rural regions since 2000. One of the major factors contributing to this decline is habitat fragmentation. As gardens become more enclosed with solid fences and walls, hedgehogs struggle to navigate their traditional territories.
The Simple Solution
Creating a "hedgehog highway" is easier than you might think:
- Drill a 13cm x 13cm hole at the base of your fence
- Ensure the hole is positioned slightly above ground level to prevent flooding
- Encourage your neighbours to do the same to create a network
Additional Ways to Help
Beyond creating passageways, the RSPCA suggests several other ways to support hedgehogs:
- Leave out shallow dishes of water (never milk)
- Provide meat-based pet food or specialist hedgehog food
- Create log piles or leave areas of your garden wild
- Check thoroughly before using strimmers or lighting bonfires
With these small acts of kindness, UK residents can play a vital role in reversing the hedgehog's decline and preserving this iconic British species for generations to come.
