Hedgehog populations in Great Britain have declined sharply over the past four decades, with numbers falling by more than two thirds, according to a comprehensive new study. The research, which analysed multiple datasets from across England, Scotland, and Wales, found a 71% decrease in hedgehog numbers between 1981 and 2023, with rural populations experiencing an even steeper decline of 80% since 2002.

The study’s findings highlight the species’ growing rarity in the countryside, where once-common hedgehogs are now increasingly at risk of local extinction. Silviu Petrovan, an assistant research professor at Cambridge University’s conservation science group and lead author on the research, emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that the hedgehog’s plight is particularly striking given its cultural prominence—being the only mammal set to appear on Britain’s newly designed banknotes.

Researchers combined data from five different sources that were not primarily focused on hedgehogs but included incidental observations. These ranged from tunnel trap records from shooting estates and roadkill reports to large-scale citizen science bird surveys. Despite the diverse nature of these datasets, all indicated a consistent downward trend in hedgehog numbers.

Ecologists attribute the decline to several interrelated factors. Agricultural intensification has removed critical hedgerows that provide shelter and habitat, while pesticide use has diminished the insects that hedgehogs feed on. The expansion of road networks contributes to habitat fragmentation and a high number of vehicle-related deaths. Additionally, growing badger populations compete with and prey on hedgehogs, though coexistence can occur if sufficient habitat is available.

Climatic conditions have also exacerbated the decline. Prolonged hot, dry summers reduce the availability of invertebrates such as beetle larvae, slugs, and snails—key food sources for hedgehogs. Petrovan noted that this trend is likely intensified by broader climate change impacts.

In contrast to rural areas, hedgehogs living in urban and suburban environments have shown resilience. Gardens and green spaces in towns appear to provide suitable refuges, offering food, water, and lower badger densities. Hedgehog numbers in urban settings have increased by about 20% since 2004, presenting a more optimistic outlook for these populations.

David Wembridge, a co-author of the study and an expert with the People’s Trust for Endangered Species, highlighted the hopeful signs in urban areas but stressed the need for comprehensive conservation efforts. Petrovan urged for systemic approaches to hedgehog protection, including habitat restoration such as hedgerow improvements. While farmers are generally supportive of conservation initiatives, balancing habitat creation with agricultural productivity remains a challenge for a country reliant on food imports.

For individual gardeners, simple measures like leaving parts of gardens wild and creating small holes in fences to allow hedgehog movement are recommended to support local populations. The research underscores the need for coordinated action to address the decline of a species that holds a cherished place in British culture and natural heritage.