After waiting over 5 weeks, the government has finally responded. No surprises here. https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/643081

The government's response to the hedgehog petition, while acknowledging the decline of the species and expressing concern, falls short in addressing the urgency and severity of the situation. While the government highlights existing legislation and initiatives aimed at habitat restoration, it fails to provide a compelling argument against the proposed addition of hedgehogs to Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

One of the key weaknesses of the government's response lies in its dismissal of the potential effectiveness of Schedule 5 protection. The government asserts that the decline in hedgehog numbers is primarily driven by habitat loss and fragmentation, implying that additional legal protection would be ineffective. However, this argument overlooks the broader context of hedgehog conservation.

Hedgehogs face a range of threats beyond habitat loss, including road mortality, pesticide use, housing, commercial and industrial developments as well as intentional or reckless killing. While habitat restoration is undoubtedly crucial, it alone cannot address these additional threats. Schedule 5 protection would not only deter intentional harm but also enhance the enforcement of existing regulations against hedgehog-unfriendly practices.

Furthermore, the government's emphasis on habitat restoration through initiatives like Biodiversity Net Gain and agri-environment schemes, while commendable, fails to acknowledge the time lag associated with these measures. Habitat restoration is a long-term process, and hedgehogs require immediate protection to prevent further decline while these efforts take effect. Hedgehogs can’t wait until 2042.

The government's response also downplays the significance of individual actions in hedgehog conservation. While the provided advice on creating hedgehog-friendly gardens is helpful, it underestimates the potential impact of collective action. A more comprehensive public awareness campaign, coupled with incentives for hedgehog-friendly practices,could significantly enhance the effectiveness of individual efforts.

In conclusion, the government's response to the hedgehog petition, while acknowledging the decline of the species, fails to adequately address the urgency of the situation. Its dismissal of Schedule 5 protection and its focus on long-term habitat restoration measures overlook the immediate threats and the potential power of individual action. A more comprehensive and proactive approach is necessary to safeguard the future of hedgehogs.

What we need to see now is a parliamentary debate but with less than 16,000 signatures and more than 84,000 signatures still needed we have a tough road ahead of us. If you haven’t signed or shared this petition https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/643081 please do before the closing date 29 February 2024. 

Hedgehogs need heroes.

Please be one today.

Many thanks, pricklypals

Maggie Wilcox