Students and staff from the University of Brighton are getting their hands dirty to help save one of Britain’s most endangered creatures: the hedgehog.
With hedgehog numbers in the UK falling by around 75% since 2000, these prickly visitors are becoming an increasingly rare sight.
The University of Brighton is working to change that; they’re turning green spaces into safe havens – all while gaining practical experience in conservation.
Carlie Hvizdash, MRes Ecology and Conservation student, said: “The Hedgehog Friendly Campus scheme has been a great opportunity to get involved in a citizen science programme focused on protecting and monitoring urban wildlife. Taking part in activities like the footprint surveys has been such a rewarding experience – it’s amazing to be part of a team making a real difference for local wildlife.
“Some of our projects so far have included building hedgehog houses, carrying out hedgehog hazard audits, and spreading the word about how everyone can help hedgehogs in their daily lives. It’s been a great experience so far and I’m really proud to be part of a University that’s so committed to protecting nature and supporting biodiversity.”
Izzy White, Sustainability Projects Officer at the University of Brighton, explains: “These surveys provide us with a real insight into the number and location of hedgehogs living on and around our campus, and how we can best support them. It’s about making practical changes like creating safe spaces and removing hazards to reduce the impact campus life has on local wildlife. At the University of Brighton, we’re proud to take an active role in protecting local biodiversity and equipping our students with the tools to make a difference.”
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