- Hedgehogs
have apparently declined nationally but little is known about
any decline of Hedgehogs in Cumbria. Hedgehogs are common
and widespread in Cumbria, being widely reported from the
coastal lowland areas and valleys. They generally avoid very
open areas of moorland and high ground, as the leaf litter
needed for nest building and hibernation is not available.
- This
is not an easy species to survey. The largest number of records
inevitably comes from road casualties. Between March and October,
however, they can be seen and watched quite easily in gardens,
although many people probably never investigate during the
hours of darkness and are unaware that these popular creatures
are quietly busy reducing the number of slugs and snails.
Our resident member of the species does a splendid job and
having sampled the delights of our rockery will sometimes
pretend to take a nap when we go out (see photo)!
- Cumbria
Wildlife Trust are using a novel method to survey numbers
during July, August and Septemebr 2007. You are asked to record
any car journey of 20 miles or more, noting whether Hedgehogs
were seen or not. For further details visit the
CWT WEBSITE.
- Apart
from the dangers of death by car tyre, Hedgehogs are poisoned
by eating fresh slug pellets, can be burnt in winter bonfires
where they have hibernated and seriously injured by the modern
practice of strimming undegrowth.
- Don't
feed Hedgehogs with bread and milk as both are harmful - use
cat and dog food, or one of the 'hedgehog' foods now sold
by many pet stores.
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