Our gardens can provide ideal habitat for hedgehogs, and a brilliant way to encourage prickly visitors is by embracing the wild! This summer, we’re championing the humble wild patch; a section of your garden given back to nature. Wilder gardens provide natural insect food and nesting materials for hedgehogs.

Wild areas are becoming increasingly scarce. This sadly is having an adverse effect on not only hedgehogs, but other wildlife too including birds, bats and pollinators. By embracing pockets of wild in our gardens, we can create microhabitats and provide natural food and shelter for hedgehogs. Gardens make up over 4300km2 of land in the UK, so together we can make a difference!

Decide on your wild patch today, and over the next year we’ll take you on a journey through the seasons, with tips on how to maximise this space, and what to look out for.

Get involved!

1. Choose your wild patch

It could be a corner at the back or a strip along the side of your garden.

2. Let us know

Tell us about your wild patch and share some ‘before’ photos. If you’re not already a Hedgehog Champion, you can sign up for free here.

3. Put your feet up

The next step is to do… nothing! Leave your wild patch undisturbed, no need to mow, strim or use any weedkillers or fertilisers. Time to put the kettle on.

4. Look out for our e-news

Over the next year we’ll be sharing seasonal tips for maximising your wild patch for hedgehogs and other wildlife. We’ll then be revisiting your wild patches next year to see the abundance of wildflowers, insects and (hopefully) hedgehogs!

Hedgehog Street is a campaign run jointly by us and The People’s Trust for Endangered Species.