Make a hedgehog highway
Create tunnels to help hedgehogs travel freely. Could you even make a whole neighbourhood network?
Last edited: 18/10/2024
Before you get started
Why this is important
Hedgehogs are often cut off from roaming freely in search of food, water, shelter, or even other hedgehogs.
By creating a highway network between gardens and fields, we can give them the freedom to move safely and reduce the risk of them getting trapped in people’s gardens.
Instructions
Make your hedgehog highway
Talk to any relevant neighbours
If your fence connects to a neighbouring garden, you’ll need permission to create hedgehog tunnels.
Here are a few points to discuss:
- The benefits of a hedgehog highway
- Ownership of the fence
- Pets that might try to use the tunnel
- Tunnel design (so it looks nice for your neighbours)
Plan a network
Think about how hedgehogs might enter and leave your area.
A single tunnel from a natural habitat, like a woodland, can give hedgehogs the chance to visit.
Connecting multiple habitats and neighbours with a series of tunnels will offer them even more freedom to explore.
Create a tunnel
Always ask an adult for permission and help before you begin. There are two ways to create a hedgehog highway, but make sure each hole is at least 13cm by 13cm (6 inches by 6 inches):
- Cut through your fence: Use a small saw to cut a section from a wooden gate or fence panel, or clippers for plastic or metal fences.
- Dig under: Use a trowel to dig a tunnel beneath the barrier.
Safety check
Make sure to sand any wood to avoid splinters (or support our work by purchasing a frame from our store).
You can also create tunnels using wood, plant pots, or pipes to keep hedgehogs safe from sharp edges. These can also help hedgehogs spot the highway!
celebrate your achievement
Get a practical animal welfare certificate!
Just finished the activity? Upload your evidence and earn your very own Animal Behaviour Certificate!