National Hedgehog Day falls on the 2nd of February every year.
Hedgehog Day is a Roman tradition preceding the modern ‘Groundhog Day’. While groundhogs are native to North America, various animals have been used in Europe, to help predict the end of winter, and the coming of spring, including the hedgehog. The Ancient Roman tradition passed down into other European folklore, in particular in Ireland. If a hedgehog was seen at the start of February, it was thought to be a sign of good weather, and a promise of warmer days. A no-show from hedgehogs meant winter was sure to continue for several more weeks.
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Did you know we have cared for and released three pairs of rescued hedgehogs?
Heene Cemetery was successfully assessed by Brent Lodge wildlife hospital, to be a rescue release site.
Our first pair of hedgehogs arrived in 2017 and conservation volunteers eagerly signed up for a daily feeding rota. We then proceeded to introduce a new pair each year.
If you live nearby, have you found hedgehogs visiting your garden? They have been filmed crawling under the cemetery gates and can travel up to 5 miles in a night!
Friends of Heene Cemetery celebrate National Hedgehog Day which falls on 2nd of February every year.
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We were not able to rescue any hedgehogs during 2020, but hope we will be able to this year. Help us celebrate the rescue of hedgehogs and their introduction to Heene.
Sue Standing – Chairperson for Friends of Heene Cemetery
