Surveys > Partner Surveys

Irish Hedgehog Survey

The Irish Hedgehog Survey is seeking to build a greater understanding of hedgehog distribution and population status across the island of Ireland.

The hedgehog is one of Ireland’s most familiar mammal species, yet there is a dearth of information on its status in Ireland. This study will provide baseline data on the distribution and status of hedgehogs in Ireland in order to fill the gap in our knowledge. The survey is a collaborative project between researchers in NUI Galway and the National Biodiversity Data Centre.

Why do we need a hedgehog survey?

Studies from Britain and elsewhere in Europe have found that hedgehog numbers are in steep decline due to habitat loss and fragmentation from changing farming practices and development. As the environment in Ireland is experiencing similar pressures the hedgehog population in Ireland may be similarly affected. This study will provide baseline data on the distribution and status of hedgehogs in Ireland in order to fill the gap in our knowledge.

Hedgehog – Photo provided by Pat Morris

Submit sightings of hedgehogs

As hedgehogs are generally nocturnal they are not often seen in the wild unless they are found dead on roads, or if they are regular visitors to gardens at night. The Irish Hedgehog Survey is looking to receive any sightings of live or dead hedgehogs to build up a more detailed picture of where they occur.

Survey using footprint tunnels or camera traps

In addition to collecting casual hedgehog sightings, the Irish Hedgehog Survey is seeking volunteers to participate in a more focused survey using footprint tunnels or camera traps to survey for hedgehogs in the garden. No specialist training is required and a simple footprint tunnel can be made at home. The survey will run between the start of June and the end of September.

Questionnaire for farmers

There is also a questionnaire for farmers to answer about hedgehogs on their land. It is a short, simple survey and the results will be very helpful in mapping the distribution on hedgehogs in the Irish countryside.

Dead hedgehogs

The Irish Hedgehog Survey is also looking to receive any hedgehog corpses. If you find a dead hedgehog, for example, a roadkill animal, please collect the specimen, place in a plastic bag (double bag if necessary), labelled with the date and location, and contact NUI Galway (elaine.oriordan@nuigalway.ie) to arrange a collection. If possible, please chill or freeze the specimen until collection.

Resources

The Irish Hedgehog Survey has produced two leaflets with top tips on making your land more hedgehog friendly. Hedgehogs need food, a place to nest, hide from predators and find mates. No one habitat can provide all these needs for hedgehogs and a variety of habitats are needed.

These leaflets are available in English and as Gaeilge.

Irish Hedgehog Survey website


The Irish Hedgehog Survey has a dedicated website, please visit this site for more information on the survey.

Contact Us


Survey Co-ordinator: Elaine O’Riordan, NUI Galway

Tel: 091 493572

Email elaine.oriordan@nuigalway.ie

  • Contact Us
  • +353 51 306 240
  • National Biodiversity Data Centre
    Beechfield House,
    Waterford Institute of Technology West Campus,
    Carriganore,
    Co. Waterford,
    Ireland.
    X91 PE03

Download our free smartphone app for recording in the field
Android App
Apple App

The National Biodiversity Data Centre is a Company Limited by Guarantee. Register Number: 730718.

 

  • Privacy
We made this!
  • Home
  • About
    • Global Biodiversity Information Facility
      • Ireland’s GBIF profile
      • The GBIF Network
      • Latest news at GBIF
      • GBIF Science Review
    • Strategic Objectives
  • Monitoring & tracking change
  • Assisting conservation
  • Ireland’s Biodiversity Learning Platform
  • Publications
  • Biodiversity Ireland’s Top 10
  • Videos
  • Shop
  • News and Events
    • Distinguished Recorder Award
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However you may visit Cookie Settings to provide a controlled consent. You can view our privacy policy here.
Cookie settingsACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Non Necessary
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
Save & Accept