Isabella Clark, a PhD student based at the University of Reading, is currently recruiting volunteers across the UK for a citizen science project investigating how urban hedgehogs may be exposed to rodenticides in residential gardens.
One potential route of exposure involves hedgehogs occurring in the same gardens as rats and mice, where rodenticides may be used to treat infestations. As a result, hedgehogs in these areas may be more likely to encounter these toxins.
To help with this project, Isabella is looking for volunteers who have access to a garden and a motion-activated wildlife or security camera. Participation involves filming a leaking tin of sardines in the garden for 1 – 2 weeks. No prior experience is needed, and full instructions will be provided.
The findings from this project may help improve understanding of the risks rodenticides pose to urban hedgehogs and inform more wildlife-friendly pest control practices.
The project is planned to begin in July 2026, with additional surveys taking place in winter 2026/2027. More information can be found on the project website under the Garden Mammal Camera Trap Survey.