Record number of Danes participate in nationwide hedgehog count amid habitat concerns

Last weekend, 10,263 Danes participated in a nationwide hedgehog count, which aimed to register sightings of these creatures. The event witnessed a total of 16,627 hedgehogs being recorded. Line Gylling, head of Danish nature at WWF, noted that while support for the initiative remained robust, the geographical distribution of reports had broadened compared to last year, which predominantly featured larger urban areas.

This year marks the second consecutive count organized by WWF in collaboration with hedgehog researcher Sophie Lund Rasmussen. Last year, approximately 15,000 participants reported around 25,000 hedgehogs. The decline in reported sightings may reflect a reduction in the number of individuals conducting the counts. Gylling cautioned against drawing overly definitive conclusions based on just two surveys, emphasizing that another count is planned for next summer.

Concerns persist regarding the pressures hedgehogs face, mirroring trends seen elsewhere in Europe. Gylling suggested that dwindling natural habitats contribute to these challenges. Additionally, Lund Rasmussen identified potential threats from gardening practices and domestic pets, which could result in hedgehog injuries or fatalities.

Notably, of this year’s reported hedgehog sightings, 954 were documented as roadkill. The hedgehog count is supported by the Nordea Foundation and will be held again on August 9, 2025.