The Day Of The Hedgehog

Join us on Saturday 21st November, at Eden Allotment Gardens, Carrickfergus, from 11am-1pm, to celebrate hedgehog conservation.

Learn how to plant a native hedgerow and build 'hog hotels'

The number of hedgehogs in the UK has plummeted in recent decades and there are thought to be as few as one million remaining. Changes in in the way we manage our land have had a real impact - fewer hedgerows and woodlands mean a loss of vital habitat and the increased use of pesticides has reduced the number of insects for our spiky friends to feed on.

The popularity of hard wooden or metal fences has made it hard for hedgehogs to move from place to place. As they become isolated in smaller and smaller areas of greenery, they cannot feed or mate. It doesn't matter if you have a garden full of worms, beetles and other bugs which hedgehogs love, if they can’t get in, they can’t benefit.

You can plant a native hedge to help our local wildlife. To achieve a thick hedge, it is advisable to plant 5 plants per metre, in double staggered rows. It is beneficial to have as many different species in a hedge as you can. For a mixed native hedge try to include three plants of the same species per metre with one each of two other species. A recommended composition would be: hawthorn 50%; blackthorn 15%; hazel 15% and 20% of other species such as guelder rose, spindle, dog rose and holly. The best time to plant is between November and March.

By planting up native hedgerows and building ‘hog hotels’ people can play their part in giving hedgehogs a home now and into the future.