Scots urged to create 'hedgehog highways' to help struggling population

Scotland’s hedgehog population has been declining since the 1950s, and more needs to be done to protect them, campaigners say.

More than 30 million were snuffling around our gardens 60 years ago, but now it’s thought there are just one million left, with habitat loss, urban development, and inaccessible gardens all contributing to falling numbers.

Conservation groups have highlighted the importance of connected residential gardens in helping hedgehogs travel safely between feeding and nesting sites.

As a result, property firm Ralph Sayer has launched a hedgehog highway campaign in partnership with Midlothian Hedgehog Rescue and Rehabilitation, urging households to support the animals through small but meaningful actions.

A checklist has been provided which urges homeowners to create garden access points, avoid harmful chemicals and maintain wildlife-friendly planting.

By incorporating wildlife-conscious advice into the home-moving process, Ralph Sayer hopes to raise awareness among homeowners at a key moment when they are already thinking about their property and outdoor space.

Tzana Webster, head of estate agency at Ralph Sayer, said: “Buying or selling a home is often about imagining the life you want to build there and for many people that includes creating a welcoming outdoor space.

“Gardens do not just belong to us. They are vital habitats for wildlife, and hedgehogs in particular rely heavily on connected, accessible green spaces to survive.

“We saw an opportunity to do something genuinely positive that had not really been explored in the property market before and use our position to encourage people to think differently about their gardens.

“If simple changes made during a house move can help protect local wildlife, then that is something worth championing.”

Ann Morrison of Midlothian Hedgehog Rescue and Rehabilitation added: “One of the biggest issues hedgehogs face in urban and suburban areas is fragmented habitats.

“People often do not realise that something as simple as a fence with no gap underneath can cut off vital access routes and make it much harder for hedgehogs to forage, nest and survive.

“It is brilliant to see a business in the property sector taking the lead and using its platform to help raise awareness.”