Don’t squish the ’hogs…!
Hedgehogs, badgers and other wildlife are getting a helping hand thanks with transport bosses updating warning signs to alert motorists to their regular crossing points and making it easier for councils to erect signs.
The updated signage will build upon the existing design first introduced in 2019. The hedgehog featured will now be displayed with white quills on its back in a bid to attract more attention.
In addition to this update, the Department for Transport aims to reduce red tape which had prevented councils from erecting
‘We urge people to slow down and stay alert’
wildlife warning signs around accident hotspots.
The announcement has been welcomed by organisations, including the AA and Badger Trust, with the latter encouraging wildlife supporters to contact their councils and campaign to get warning signs in accident hotspots.
Peter Hambly, Executive Director of the Badger Trust went on to add, however, that whilst the signs represent a welcome start, they would like to see further traffic calming measures in places with a high incidence of collisions.
“Badgers are the number one mammal killed on the roads every year. We urge people to slow down and stay alert,” a Badger Trust statement added.
Transport Minister, Mark Harper said: “These common-sense changes will lead to more small animal signs across the country, cutting down on bureaucracy to protect both drivers and small animals, improving safety.”
The signs are intended to protect ancient crossing routes for small animals, who have often used the same pathways for generations.
Motorcyclists too can benefit, with improved signage offering bikers advanced warning of potential hazards.