Let's all spot the hedgehog

VOLUNTEERS are being sought in the Lowestoft and Southwold areas to collect information on hedgehogs for the first population study in 10 years.Suffolk Wildlife Trust is asking people to pass on information about hedgehogs visiting their gardens and hopes the study will provide important information about the creatures.

VOLUNTEERS are being sought in the Lowestoft and Southwold areas to collect information on hedgehogs for the first population study in 10 years.

Suffolk Wildlife Trust is asking people to pass on information about hedgehogs visiting their gardens and hopes the study will provide important information about the creatures.

The trust is concerned that, while hedgehogs are still relatively common, their numbers may well be declining. 'It's been 10 years since the last survey, so we would like to assess whether there has been any changes in numbers of hedgehogs visiting people's gardens,' said Simone Bullion, its senior conservation adviser.

Hedgehogs hibernate from October to April and are born in June and July. During the day they usually sleep under a hedge.

Potential garden hazards to them include slug pellets. And the trust fears hedgehog numbers could be declining because of loss of habitat, a reduction in food supplies and deaths on the roads. However, it says many gardens can provide them with places to feed and shelter, thereby offering valuable havens.

To take part in the study visit www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org or call 01473 890089.