Hedgehogs, with their distinctive spines and nocturnal habits, are a familiar sight in gardens and wild spaces. The question of their long-term survival is complex, as their conservation status varies significantly among the different species found globally.
Hedgehog Species and Their Status
The term “hedgehog” encompasses 17 distinct species, each with its own conservation outlook. The European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) was reclassified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in October 2024 from “Least Concern” to “Near Threatened.” This change reflects a widespread population decline, indicating the species may be experiencing a decline exceeding 30% over a 10-year period across much of its range.
In Great Britain, the European hedgehog is considered “Vulnerable” to extinction and was designated a priority conservation species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan in 2007. While populations are generally stable in some parts of Europe, significant declines have been noted in countries such as the UK, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, and Austria. Conversely, other species like the African pygmy hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris) and the desert hedgehog (Paraechinus aethiopicus) are currently listed as “Least Concern” by the IUCN. Their populations are considered stable and widely distributed across their respective habitats in central and eastern Africa, and the Middle East.
Threats to Hedgehog Survival
Hedgehog populations, particularly the European hedgehog, face challenges from human activities. Habitat loss and fragmentation are concerns, driven by expanding urbanization and intensive agricultural practices. The removal of hedgerows, larger field sizes, and the conversion of natural areas into developments reduce available habitat.
Road casualties also contribute substantially to hedgehog mortality, especially during warmer months when they are more active. Hedgehogs curl into a ball when threatened; this defense offers little protection against vehicles. Pesticide use in agricultural and garden settings reduces their insect food sources and can directly poison them. Other threats include drowning in steep-sided ponds or pools, injuries from garden machinery like strimmers, and predation from increasing badger populations, which also compete for food.
Conservation Actions
Efforts to protect hedgehogs involve a multi-faceted approach by organizations, governments, and individuals. Habitat creation and restoration are central to providing suitable environments for hedgehogs. This includes encouraging “hedgehog highways” through fences, creating wild patches, and leaving log and leaf piles for shelter and nesting.
Awareness campaigns educate the public about hedgehog needs and promote hedgehog-friendly practices. Organizations like the People’s Trust for Endangered Species (PTES) and the British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS) run campaigns such as “Hedgehog Street,” encouraging hedgehog-friendly gardens. Research and monitoring programs are also conducted to better understand population trends and the impacts of various threats. This insight guides targeted and effective conservation strategies.