The Infinite Monkey Cage
Hedgehogs
Nov 20, 2024
Join hedgehog expert Hugh Warwick, known for his advocacy and books on the species, alongside Sophie Lund Rasmussen, Oxford researcher dubbed 'Dr. Hedgehog', and broadcaster Pam Ayres, who poetically cherishes wildlife. They dive into the quirky lives of hedgehogs, discussing mating rituals, surprising hunting skills, and quirky behaviors like self-anointing. The conversation also touches on conservation challenges, including habitat connectivity and even the threat of robotic lawn mowers, all wrapped in humor and love for these spiky mammals.
42:34
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Quick takeaways
- Hedgehogs, despite being beloved in Britain, face rapid population decline due to habitat destruction and modern threats like robotic lawn mowers.
- Efforts to conserve hedgehogs focus on community involvement, including initiatives such as creating wildlife-friendly gardens and connecting habitats through small fence openings.
Deep dives
The Charm of Hedgehogs
Hedgehogs are beloved throughout Britain, recognized as the nation's favorite wild mammal due to their unique characteristics and endearing appearances. Their small, spiny bodies and button-like black eyes have made them particularly appealing to the public. They thrive in natural environments, but their numbers are rapidly declining due to various threats, such as accidents and habitat destruction. This decline has sparked a desire among individuals to take action to protect them, highlighting the importance of hedgehogs in British culture and wildlife.
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