Tips for A hedgehog-safe bonfire 

Store items, preferably off the ground in a safe place.  On the day you want to light it, do so away from the storage area, and check each pallet individually. Log piles are attractive, but equally, so can stacks of wood pallets, particularly if there is leaf coverage. The longer items are left unattended, the higher the chance a hedgehog will make use of it. 

Do Not build or light a bonfire that has been built upon a stack of leaves, even if the pile appears small, a hedgehog may be hibernating underneath. Always check piles of leaves nearby where you plan to light as smoke can travel and may disturb the hog who may panic and run towards the fire. Build bonfires on the night of lighting and away from any possible hibernation spots. 

Check inside the bonfire before lighting. Hedgehogs tend to use the middle of it so without careful checking, they may be unseen. 

If, on checking, a hedgehog is found, unharmed, use a pair of gardening gloves or a towel and place them in a safe location, complete with any nesting materials they were using. It is best to relocate under a bush or hedge. If found during the day, it may be best to keep in a cardboard box with nesting material and release after dark.  

Check out our complete hedgehog guide! From keeping an eye on the little midnight wanderers to attracting them to your garden and what to do if you come across a sick or injured one. See you there! 

Check out our extensive guide to British Wildlife. Fill your boots with information that will (hopefully) give you a new found admiration for these amazing animals.