DO YOU HAVE HEDGEHOGS?

LOOK FOR DROPPINGS

Hedgehog scats ( below) are quite distinct: about 2–3cm long, typically blunt at one end, gritty, black and studded with shiny bits like glitter (inedible insect wing-cases and exoskeletons). They’re often deposited on lawns, so easy to see.

LISTEN FOR SNUFFLING

These are noisy mammals. You might hear coughs, snuffles, huffs or wheezes – especially on balmy evenings during the May–July breeding season, when amorous hogs can sound like little steam trains.

SET UP A TRAILCAM

Fix one at ground level near suitable-looking access points (experiment with different positions). Even if you don’t strike gold, you’ll get insights into your garden’s other nocturnal visitors.

FINALLY, ASK AROUND!

If hedgehogs live in your street, estate or suburb, the odds are a neighbour will have noticed one. Also check the UK-wide sightings map at www.bighedgehogmap.org