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Brits Urged to Save Endangered Hedgehogs by Leaving Autumn Leaves Untouched
10 Oct
Summary
- Experts advise against clearing all leaves from gardens to protect hedgehogs
- Hedgehog numbers in UK have halved since 2007, now fewer than 1 million
- Leaves provide shelter and food for hedgehogs, a beneficial garden creature
As of October 10th, 2025, experts are strongly advising UK gardeners to reconsider their autumn leaf-clearing habits in order to protect the country's dwindling hedgehog population. According to the latest reports, hedgehog numbers in the UK have plummeted by 50% since 2007, with fewer than 1 million of these beneficial creatures now estimated to be left.
The primary threat to hedgehogs is the widespread practice of clearing away all fallen leaves from gardens and outdoor spaces. Leaves provide crucial shelter and food sources for hedgehogs, who often seek refuge in leaf piles. With climate change, garden design changes, and over-management of green spaces, hedgehogs are increasingly finding themselves with nowhere to shelter during the brutal winter months.
