🆘 Another Hedgehog Hurt – Why This Petition Matters More Than Ever
Dear supporters,

I wanted to share something truly heartbreaking—but also important.

On 31 July 2025, the remains of a hedgehog were discovered at Ham Woods in Plymouth. Police confirmed it had likely been deliberately set alight. This appalling act of cruelty is now under investigation by Devon & Cornwall Police, who are asking the public to come forward with any information.

Just weeks before, another hedgehog in Lincolnshire was caught in a prohibited gin trap. Despite being banned since 1958, these traps are still being used—this poor animal had to be euthanised due to its injuries. 

These are not one-offs.

These acts of cruelty highlight exactly why this petition is so urgent. Hedgehogs are not fully protected under UK law.Without Schedule 5 listing, their nests can be destroyed, and cruel acts like these may go unpunished or result only in a slap on the wrist.

🦔 Hedgehogs Deserve Better
Our petition calls for hedgehogs to be added to Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981—a change that would:

Protect hedgehogs from being deliberately harmed or disturbed
Protect their shelters from being destroyed
Strengthen enforcement and penalties for cruelty
✊ What You Can Do Today
Share this petition again with friends and family: https://chng.it/xFMxXjrNmv
Tag your MP on social media and ask if they support Schedule 5 protection for hedgehogs
Support your local hedgehog rescue—they’re the ones picking up the pieces
Make your garden hedgehog-safe: remove netting, check for nests before mowing, and create hedgehog highways
Thank you for being part of this movement. Together, we can change the law—and help stop these tragedies before they happen again.

With hope (and a bit of righteous rage),

Maggie Wilcox
Petition Starter & Wildlife Campaigner