Hedgehogs in peril
The UK’s favourite spiny mammals are in trouble. Since the beginning of the 21st century, hedgehogs numbers have declined between 30-75%. They face a whole host of challenges, including road traffic, litter, poisoning and habitat loss.
As of 2020 there is estimated to be just a million hedgehogs left, representing a 97% fall from the 30 million who once roamed the UK in the 1950s. They are one of the species now listed as vulnerable to extinction on Britain’s Red List. City dwelling hedgehog numbers appear to be recovering after a long period of decline but there is more work to be done.
It is clear they are in need of our help. If we don’t do something soon, this iconic mammal is likely to be a thing of the past in the UK.
Hedgehog Friendly Campus
The Hedgehog Friendly Campus accreditation scheme encourages, supports and celebrates educational institutions in supporting hedgehogs and other wildlife on their campuses. The project is funded by the British Hedgehog Preservation Society and SOS-UK and runs nationally.
The UoN Hedgehog Friendly Campus Group
The University of Nottingham’s Hedgehog Friendly Campus Group was set up in 2019 and has staff and student members. They aim to raise awareness of the plight of hedgehog while taking practical steps to improve habitats and circumstances for hedgehogs across university campuses.
So far the group has achieved Silver status and is now working towards Gold. They also organise events and activities to raise awareness about hedgehogs, from litter picks to hedgehog surveys to charity bake sales.
If you would like to find out more about the group and what they are up to then contact hannah.constantin@nottingham.ac.uk.
Opportunities for students
Students can volunteer for various roles by completing this form.
SOS-UK are also looking for students to conduct the 2024 audits for their Hedgehog Friendly Campus programme. This will include a morning of free training, followed by an afternoon of you conducting online audits for Hedgehog Friendly Campus teams from various educational institutions, including schools, colleges and universities. Learn new skills and make a positive impact! Apply via this short form.