PROBLEM:
It has emerged that Hedgehogs account for 16.1% of wildlife road-kill deaths in Britain.
The People's Trust for Endangered Species has issued a warning after the research revealed a fall of 7.5% since 2001 in Hedgehog road-kill deaths, suggesting the Hedgehog has declined dramatically.
The Hedgehog ranked 2nd on the list of wildlife road-kill statistics, with the Rabbit 1st accounting for 58% of the deaths.
David Wembridge of The People's Trust for Endangered Species said:
''The short reaction distances mean that running is unlikely to be any more effective as an escape response than freezing and, because hedgehogs are taller when they run than when they crouch, they are more likely to be struck by a vehicle's undercarriage if fleeing.''
SOLUTION:
Sadly, there is not much that can be done in reducing the numbers of Hedgehogs killed by cars. However, always keep an eye out for Hedgehogs on the road, especially during the Summer months when Hedgehogs are most active.
Mon Feb 04, 2013 3:34 pm
