Home / Environment / Tiny Fence Openings Become Lifeline for Declining Hedgehog Population
Tiny Fence Openings Become Lifeline for Declining Hedgehog Population
24 Oct
Summary
- Hedgehog population has plummeted in recent years
- Creating 13x13cm gaps in fences allows hedgehogs to move safely between gardens
- Providing food, water, and shelter also helps make gardens more hedgehog-friendly
As of October 2025, hedgehog populations in Britain have plummeted in recent years, but homeowners can take simple steps to help revive these beloved nocturnal visitors. According to the RSPCA, creating small 13x13cm openings in fences, known as "hedgehog highways," allows the creatures to safely move between gardens and access a wider network of foraging and nesting areas.
Hedgehogs typically travel up to 3km each night, and these tiny fence gaps provide them the freedom to roam and find the food, water, and shelter they need. Beyond the fences, homeowners can further support hedgehogs by placing shallow dishes of food and water, as well as offering secure daytime resting spots and winter hibernation sites.
While some may worry about security or unwanted pests, the RSPCA assures that the small openings are too small for larger animals to access. Instead, homeowners are likely to gain additional nocturnal visitors that excel at controlling garden pests. By making these simple adjustments, ordinary gardens can become essential havens for the declining hedgehog population.
