I am a conservation student deeply passionate about our local wildlife, particularly hedgehogs. Over the years, I have witnessed a concerning decline in hedgehog numbers in the wild. This is not just an isolated issue; it reflects a nationwide trend. According to the British Hedgehog Preservation Society, hedgehog populations have declined by 50% since the turn of the century.

Our beloved hedgehogs are facing numerous threats due to habitat loss and fragmentation caused by urban development and intensive farming practices. It's time we take decisive action to protect these vital creatures who play an essential role in our ecosystem.

We call on local authorities and developers in West Yorkshire to improve conservation efforts for hedgehogs by creating wildlife highways - corridors of habitat that connect different areas of land - providing safe passages for these creatures amidst human-dominated landscapes.

Additionally, we urge for mandatory implementation of regular hedgehog surveys during building works to ensure their habitats are not being destroyed unknowingly. These surveys would provide valuable data on population trends and help inform future conservation strategies.

By signing this petition, you're standing up for our prickly friends who can't speak up for themselves. You're helping us send a clear message that their survival matters to us all. Please sign this petition today - let's give our hedgehogs a fighting chance!