Bonfire’s affecting the population of Hedgehogs in the UK

With hedgehogs looking for a comfy, dry, warm, and secure home for their hibernation, they are at risk of ending up in a pile of sticks to be used for a bonfire. Many rescue centres find an increase in injuries or deaths of hedgehogs because of these bonfires. 

To protect these species, the British Hedgehog Conservation Society have released a three-step process when individuals create bonfires. 

Number 1 (Stop)– question if you need to have a bonfire? Are you able to attend a local bonfire celebration where specialists have considered the environment? With fewer bonfires created, there will be fewer wildlife casualties there will be. 

Number 2 (Move)– Making sure to build it on the day that you plan to light the bonfire, as this will prevent any creatures from hiding amongst the sticks.

Number 3 (Check) -Before lighting the bonfire, make sure to check the pile for any wildlife by either shining a torch or gently lifting each section of the bonfire. 

Whilst hedgehogs are impacted by bonfires, Imogen Buller -from BHPS- speaks about the other impacts on these species, including “increased pesticides and loss of habitat like hedgerows”. Buller also identifies that “habitat fragmentation is a really big problem for hedgehogs like roads, fences, and brick walls”. 

Dawn O’Malley, the Senior Engagement Manager of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, urged people to attend “public displays instead of putting on our own events in gardens” as this can “reduce these impacts on wildlife and the environment”. 

With Hedgehog Street’s report stating that over half of the population of hedgehogs is lost from our countryside and a third disappearing from our towns and cities, it is vital for this native species to be protected at all costs. 

Anyone wishing to learn more about how to protect hedgehogs during Bonfire Night , then go on https://www.britishhedgehogs.org.uk to learn more information.