Hedgehog charter launched ahead of nature festival

Wicksteed Park has unveiled its Hedgehog Charter designed to safeguard the animals

A charter to safeguard hedgehogs at a park has been introduced ahead of a new nature festival dedicated to the understanding and protection of wildlife habitats.

The Hedgehog Charter was developed by Wicksteed Park and the British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS) and commits to actions aimed at reversing the steep decline in populations across the UK.

Some of the measures being taken at the Northamptonshire site include ramps being installed along the lake's edges to help the animals escape water.

Fay Vass, chief executive of BHPS, said she was "delighted that Wicksteed Park has launched a Hedgehog Charter", which "highlights an important commitment to protecting our native wild hedgehogs".

Ramps are being installed around the park's lake to help hedgehogs get out of the water

The animals live in a variety of habitats including woodland, farmland, parks and gardens, but can also thrive in urban areas.

According to the latest State of Britain's Hedgehogs report, between 30% and 75% of the population has been lost in rural areas in the last 20 years.

The drop in numbers varies between regions, but the largest falls are in the eastern half of England.

'Vital role'

The charter pledges to enhance natural habitats, reduce chemical use and monitor hedgehog activity across the park in Kettering.

Warning stickers will be placed in all areas storing equipment to remind staff to look out for the animals when tending the grounds. Also, ramps will be installed around the lake to help hedgehogs and other animals escape when entering the water.

Kelly Richardson, Wicksteed Park's director, said hedgehogs played "a vital role within our ecosystems".

The first Festival of Nature, run by Kettering Nature Group, is taking place at the park on Saturday.