Hedgehog warning signs could be introduced in Hampshire
The species are currently vulnerable to extinction
Hedgehog warning signs could be installed in Hampshire if evidence shows it is required to protect the species.
In December 2023, the Department for Transport (DfT) introduced new changes to ensure local authorities can place “small wild animal” warning signs where needed rather than applying to DfT on a case-by-case basis.
Across England, hedgehogs are registered as vulnerable to extinction on the red list for Britain’s mammals.
Stats show hedgehog populations have fallen by 30 per cent since 2000, with rural areas seeing a drop of 75 per cent.
Elaine Rudge from Hampshire Hedgehog Rescue said:
"It would help the situation. Over the past couple of years I have seen a number of 'flat ones' and it just makes my heart sink.
"I think having the signs up would be fantastic, to make people aware they need to be looking out for them.
"If we don't act now and get people to be more 'wildlife aware', its not just hedgehogs that will disappear it will be foxes, badgers and deer.
"The whole habitat will disappear - then what will we do then?"
A spokesperson for Hampshire County Council said:
“We already work closely with a number of local wildlife and community groups to support their efforts in preserving different animal species through the erection of various forms of wildlife signage.
“This includes temporary signs for migrating species, such as toads, in certain parts of the county, as well as permanent road signs to help safeguard larger wildlife, such as horses in the New Forest.
“The ‘hedgehog’ sign is one of a number of signs provided by the Department for Transport for local authorities to use. To date, we do not have any in situ, but would consider requests for their provision should evidence show that they are justified.”