A WOMAN who runs a hedgehog rescue centre in Neston has welcomed the launch of the first ever national Hedgehog Housing Census.

Launched on Tuesday, the nationwide campaign hopes to combat the ongoing decline in native hedgehog numbers.

The information gathered will be analysed at the University of Reading and will help Hedgehog Street determine which is the best type of hedgehog house is and how they can be used to help to support the conservation of the animals.

The reasons for the loss of UK hedgehog numbers are complex, but are thought to be associated with the decline in hedgerows and permanent grasslands. This then causes them to move to places like people’s gardens for shelter.

Kim Goodridge, of Neston Hedgehog Reserve, said: “I’m delighted that the survey is being carried out, I am disappointed at the standard of newer hedgehog houses apparently approved by the RSPCA. They are too small and we always check each home before sending hedgehogs to be rehomed to see if they are suitable for housing hedgehogs and we loan out bigger houses for those who need it.”

“The houses will help against badgers who have the ability to kill hedgehogs with ease and also will offer protection in hot weather as the recent hot spell killed many young hedgehog who were dehydrated. If you find one then give it dried mealworms and a bowl of water.”

Between now and October 31, the census will dig a little deeper into the world of hedgehogs in the hope of answering several questions about how the animals live and, in particular, their use of artificial hedgehog houses, which, until now, have not been studied.

Emily Wilson, hedgehog officer for Hedgehog Street said: “We know thousands of people across the UK have hedgehog houses in their gardens, but what we don’t know is whether they actually benefit hedgehogs.

"Through the Hedgehog Housing Census we will investigate the nation’s hedgehog homes to find out what works best for the hedgehogs, which in turn will help our ongoing conservation work.”

The census will answer questions such as: Is the hedgehog house needed? What materials is it made from? What is the best design?

The Hedgehog Street team is very keen to hear from anyone who has a hedgehog house in their garden. Visit www.hedgehogstreet.org/housingcensus to take part.