WWF Launches Hedgehog Counting Initiative as Population Declines

The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is set to initiate a nationwide hedgehog counting initiative in Sweden from August 11 to 17, 2023, aimed at gathering critical data on the declining hedgehog population. This initiative comes in light of hedgehogs being classified as vulnerable in the upcoming update of Sweden's red list of threatened species. Previous data recorded 28,662 live hedgehogs and 2,572 dead ones in 2022, highlighting a concerning trend in their population numbers.

The initiative will focus on collecting information across Sweden, with particular attention to regions where hedgehogs are most and least prevalent. Notably, the highest concentrations of hedgehogs are found in Gotland, while Jämtland presents the least favorable conditions for their survival due to habitat limitations. Factors contributing to the decline include increased road traffic, bonfires, robotic lawn mowers, and habitat loss, making urban gardens and parks critical for hedgehog survival.

WWF plans to conduct this counting project over a span of five years to establish a solid dataset for future comparison. Jessica Ångström, a conservation expert at WWF, stated, "We want to try to understand why they are decreasing," emphasizing the importance of understanding both populated and unpopulated areas in hedgehog habitats. The ongoing threats and the importance of this initiative reflect a significant concern for the future of hedgehogs in Sweden.