A ‘CITIZENS science initiative’ aimed at discovering more about the humble hedgehog has been launched.
Hedgehogs After Dark has been launched by a trio of charities working through the group Hedgehog Street.
Running until July 26, it asks local residents to become hedgehog champions to record hedgehog behaviour to help conservationists discover, and better understand, the hidden lives of Britain’s popular nocturnal creature this summer.
The aim is to find out what hedgehogs are up to in the evening, when they are most active.
“If at dusk and after dark, you spot behaviours such as feeding or drinking, travelling across a garden, or even better using a Hedgehog Highway, swimming in a pond, mating, grooming or nesting, we want to hear about it,” said hedgehog officer Grace Johnson.
“We know gardens are vital habitats for hedgehogs, but we’d like to understand exactly how they are using them.”
Those who aren’t already a Hedgehog Champion but want to take part, can sign up for free online at Hedgehog Street.
Photos can be upload to social media using #HedgehogsAfterDark, and people with a wildlife camera can upload their best videos to the Hedgehogs After Dark behaviour log too.
To take part visit: www.hedgehogstreet.org/Hedgehogs-After-Dark.
