Hedgehogs have been significantly declining throughout the UK. In the 1950s there was an estimated 30 million by 1995 that number had dropped to about 1 million that's an average drop of about 666,666 per year. The cause for this huge drop in numbers was due in part to massive infrastructure building and intense agriculture farming. Although there are conflicting reports on current numbers several surveys from leading organisations and public opinion suggests they are still declining. There are several reasons for this current decline in hedgehogs. Modern housing developments place little emphasis on gardens, what is available is small and of poor soil quality making growing things very difficult. Traditional hedged gardens are now being replaced by fencing completely sealing off the garden, this preventing the movement of hedgehogs from one garden to another.  the use of slug pellets is now the most common method to prevent plants being eaten by slugs and snails, however hedgehogs are also falling victim to being poisoned either by direct consumption of a pellet or by eating a poisoned slug. Large open spaces are now replacing traditional town parks and are being used as part of developments which usually involve the destruction of natural open spaces. Instead of abundant hedgerows which provide an excellent safe area for a hedgehog to forage, sleep and take cover are being replaced by fences and a few bushes and trees. The removal of hedgerows is becoming very common on sides of roads, fields and parks. Currently the Hedgehog only is partially protected under the Countryside Act 1981 the only law is that they are not to be intentionally trapped, but this does not prevent the deliberate removal of them from gardens. Where a person could not legally remove a fox den from under their shed no law exist for hogs. Hedgehogs are also extremely beneficial to gardens they prey mainly on slugs and snails and other insects which have a negative impact on gardening. Urgent action is needed to prevent further decline or the next generation will be unable to enjoy the nations favorite garden visitor.