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UK Hedgehogs: Garden Pesticides Threaten Extinction
2 Jul
Summary
- Hedgehogs are vital garden allies, consuming pests harmful to plants.
- Metaldehyde slug pellets, banned since 2021, pose severe risks.
- Seeing hedgehogs in daylight may indicate they need urgent help.
Hedgehogs, a common yet endangered species in the UK, face significant threats from garden practices. These creatures are beneficial garden inhabitants, as they prey on pests like beetles and caterpillars. However, they are at risk of extinction. Gardeners are cautioned against using certain pest control products that can prove fatal.
Metaldehyde slug pellets, once widely used to protect plants from slugs and snails, are now banned across the UK due to their high toxicity to wildlife. Although replaced by safer alternatives like ferric phosphate, old stocks may still exist. Consumption of slugs or snails treated with these pellets can poison hedgehogs. Therefore, safe disposal of any remaining metaldehyde products is crucial.
Beyond chemical threats, gardeners must also be mindful of everyday tasks. Strimming can cause severe injury or death to hedgehogs. Furthermore, hedgehogs are nocturnal. Spotting one during daylight hours, even if it appears healthy, is a strong indicator that the animal is in trouble and may require intervention. Contacting wildlife support organizations is advised in such cases.
