Why are we doing this?
Hedgehogs are officially vulnerable to extinction in the UK. Human activities make it increasingly difficult for hedgehogs to carry out their lives safely. Littering can be especially dangerous as hedgehogs are curious creatures and may become trapped in plastic rings, bags or elastic bands. Hedgehogs can walk as far as 2km a night, this ability to travel is being hindered by an increase in fencing and walls, preventing them from accessing food, breeding areas, shelter or their hoglets.
Recent surveys have shown that hedgehog populations have been depleted by half in the last 20 years alone due to human activity. The loss of hedgerows, increase in urban areas, rise in predators and loss of food resources have all aided in the decline of this iconic species.
However, we can help hedgehogs make a comeback by providing food, shelter, habitat corridors and litter picking. Through these conservation efforts we can make our campus hedgehog friendly and ensure that resident hedgehogs on The University of Stirling live a hassle-free life.