Bonfire Night & Hedgehogs

Every year hundreds of hedgehogs die or suffer from horrific injuries because bonfires are not checked before being lit.

The British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS) suggests bonfires are not constructed until the day they are to be lit.

Fay Vass, Chief Executive of BHPS, said:

“Bonfires look like five-star hotels to a hedgehog in search of a hibernation site.  It is crucial to dismantle and move a stored bonfire to a different site just before lighting on clear ground - never on top of a pile of leaves. Also watch out for pampas grass which ignites very easily and is another favourite spot for hedgehogs to hide.”

If a large bonfire has to be built in advance, protect it during construction by erecting chicken wire one metre high all the way around the bottom.  This should be held in place with stakes and the wire should slope outwards at an angle to make it difficult to climb, as hedgehogs are good climbers!
 
 Hedgehogs tend to hide in the centre and bottom two feet of the bonfire - check in advance of lighting by gently lifting the bonfire section by section with a pole or broom. Never use a spade or fork as these can also cause injuries to hedgehogs. 

Using a torch will help, and listen out for a hissing sound - the noise a hedgehogs makes when disturbed. 

“If hedgehogs are found, take as much of the nest as you can and place them in a high-sided cardboard box with plenty of newspaper or old towelling.” Fay continued. “Ensure there are air holes in the lid and that the lid is secured firmly to the box.  Wear garden gloves so as not to pass on human smells and to minimize stress caused to the hedgehog – it will also protect you from their prickles.

“Put the box in a safe place, such as a shed or garage and well away from the festivities, as fireworks also terrify them.  Once the bonfire is totally dampened down, release the hedgehog under a hedge, bush or behind a stack of logs.”
 
Going to an official organised fireworks display is a far safer option for both humans and animals.
 
For free advice and to obtain the names of hedgehog carers in your area in advance of bonfire night, contact the BHPS on 01584 890 801 or visit website at www.britishhedgehogs.org.uk