It’s not just pets indoors that can be affected by disruption during the Autumn period. Outdoor animals and wildlife that live in our gardens can face distress and disruption as a result of loud noises, bright flashes and destruction to their natural habitat. This can include hedgehogs, badgers, foxes, squirrels, frogs, toads, mice, lizards, snakes and more that are all found in our gardens and local areas.
So, what can you do to look out for the wildlife around you this bonfire season?
Here are our top tips:
1. Watch out for wildlife in bonfire piles
Warm and moist bonfire piles are the perfect cosy winter hiding spots for common garden wildlife such as hedgehogs, toads and frogs. If you are having a bonfire or similar in your garden or local area, make sure to check the pile first for any hidden wildlife!
2. Build an alternative safe haven for wildlife to be drawn towards
You may like to create a separate pile of leaves, logs, sticks, etc which could act as an alternative shelter for wildlife and draw them away from sheltering in your bonfire pile.
3.Make sure the bonfire is fully put out after displays and events are over
Make sure any bonfire heat is fully put out after use to guarantee that no animals will be drawn to the bonfire heat and burn themselves.
4. Watch out for any debris or plastic pollution left behind
Clear up your garden from any unwanted debris such as plastics, wrappers or burned-out sparklers. This will avoid any wildlife getting trapped in plastic, or falling ill from eating substances that are poisonous to them
4. Watch out for any debris or plastic pollution left behind
Clear up your garden from any unwanted debris such as plastics, wrappers or burned-out sparklers. This will avoid any wildlife getting trapped in plastic, or falling ill from eating substances that are poisonous to them
Let’s all play our part to protect nature and wildlife around us this Autumn!
If you’re interested in learning more about the wildlife in your garden, you may be interested in our Introduction to Hedgehogs Course, available on our website now. The course takes you through three comprehensive modules on: The Social History of the Hedgehog, Taxonomy and Classification of the Hedgehog, and the Current Status of Hedgehogs.
Also, if you adore animals, you can keep track of all upcoming animal awareness days and events with our FREE calendar! Download it here.
