Check bonfires for hedgehogs before lighting, charity urges

Summarised from 4 outlets · Updated 2 Nov, 06:44 · Archive

Cumbria Wildlife Trust is urging people to check bonfires for hedgehogs and other animals before lighting them on Bonfire Night.

Cumbria Wildlife Trust has issued advice ahead of Bonfire Night on Thursday, 5 November, urging people to check bonfires for hedgehogs and other wildlife before lighting them. Hedgehogs, amphibians and invertebrates can mistake piles of wood for somewhere safe and warm to shelter, putting them at risk during celebrations.

The charity recommends building bonfires on the day they are due to be lit and checking them thoroughly before lighting, paying particular attention to the centre of the pile where hedgehogs may be hiding. If someone discovers a hedgehog, they should use gardening gloves to carefully move it into a cardboard box and place it somewhere safe and dry.

Fireworks also pose a significant risk to wildlife. The trust warned that fireworks can cause considerable distress and disruption to animals, particularly birds. People setting off fireworks at home are advised to do so away from trees and hedgerows and to choose low-noise fireworks where possible.

Cumbria Wildlife Trust encouraged people to consider attending an organised event instead of holding their own display. This approach would help reduce the disturbance caused to wildlife and pets in the local area.

How it is being reported

• The simple Bonfire Night check that could save a hedgehogPeople celebrating Bonfire Night are being urged to check bonfires for hedgehogs and other wildlife before lighting them.Cumberland News · 2 Nov, 06:00
• The simple Bonfire Night check that could save a hedgehogPeople celebrating Bonfire Night are being urged to check bonfires for hedgehogs and other wildlife before lighting them.Whitehaven News · 2 Nov, 06:00
• The simple Bonfire Night check that could save a hedgehogPeople celebrating Bonfire Night are being urged to check bonfires for hedgehogs and other wildlife before lighting them.NW Evening Mail · 2 Nov, 06:00
• The simple Bonfire Night check that could save a hedgehogPeople celebrating Bonfire Night are being urged to check bonfires for hedgehogs and other wildlife before lighting them.Westmorland Gazette · 2 Nov, 06:00

In this story: Cumbria Wildlife Trust · Cumbria

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