Wildlife Connectivity: Hedgehog Friendly Heath

Improving Wildlife Connectivity

We’re working with local groups to develop free resources, provide training and support and inspire people to get involved with nature conservation around Hampstead Heath. Much of this work is focusing on Hedgehogs, though other species will also benefit.

We are monitoring and surveying the hedgehogs on and around the Heath, inspiring local people to protect hedgehogs and other wildlife species around the Heath and working with local residents, organisations & schools to:

Map barriers to hedgehog (and other wildlife) connectivity.
Reduce these barriers where possible (e.g. making hedgehog holes in fences).
Make biodiversity improvements for hedgehogs (and other species) on and around the fringes of Hampstead Heath.

Did you know that Hampstead Heath is home to one of the largest populations of hedgehogs in London?

Hedgehogs have been declining in both rural and urban habitats, and we have lost around a third of the national population since the millennium. In 2020, Hedgehogs were listed as ‘vulnerable to extinction’ on the UK red list for mammals.
In the State of Britain’s Hedgehogs report 2022 it was revealed that in urban areas there may be a stable population of hedgehogs that might be recovering. This highlights the importance of local action and greenspaces to ensure the future of hedgehogs.

Ways you can get involved

Find out more about hedgehogs here.
Take part:

Have you seen a hedgehog? Send us your sightings using the wildlife sightings form below. You can also report your sightings on the Big Hedgehog Map.
Volunteer with us, or with your local neighbourhood group.
Sign up to our community newsletter to find out about projects and events.
Take action:
Check out the Hedgehog Street resources to help encourage hedgehogs in your neighbourhood.
Take your litter home or organise a community litter pick (we can provide the equipment).
Create small openings in walls and fences to help animals move between different areas - you can buy a hedgehog highway sign here.
Plant a variety of plants in your garden - and leave a messy corner for bugs and hedgehogs.
Adopt a hedgehog home on Hampstead Heath.
Get support:
Would your school or group of neighbours like help to find out if you have hedgehogs?
Would you like to to make a hedgehog box to install at home?
Would you like more advice on helping hedgehogs?
Contact us on the form below.