Hedgehog Research Project 2026

A PhD student based at the University of Reading is conducting a research project, investigating how urban hedgehogs may be exposed to rodenticides, toxins designed to control rodent infestations, through different routes such as access to rodent bait boxes and scavenging poisoned carcasses. This is an important but under-researched issue, so the researcher is looking to work with volunteers who have access to a garden, particularly those located in or near Reading, although participants from elsewhere are also welcome if they have suitable equipment. The findings from this project may help improve understanding of the risks rodenticides pose to urban hedgehogs and inform wildlife-friendly pest contr ol practices.

EEG members are invited to take part in a citizen science project, where participants can contribute from their own gardens. Volunteers can choose to participate in one, two, or all three projects, which include camera trapping and monitoring wildlife visiting rodent bait boxes. No prior experience is required, and instructions will be provided. The projects are planned to begin in summer 2026, with two experiments repeated during winter 2026/2027.

Participation is designed to be simple and flexible, and materials will be provided for volunteers living in or near Reading. Participants who already have suitable equipment, such as camera traps, are also welcome to use their own equipment.

More information can be found here.

Please feel free to get in touch if you have any questions.