Follow us

Hedgerow wildlife

Hedgerow wildlife

A vital habitat

It has been identified that during their lifespan a total of 130 species of conservation concern rely on hedgerows. Hedgerow loss and degradation is a contributory factor in the decline of many species, particularly those associated with farmland. Hedges can provide wildlife with a physical home, shelter, source of food and passage between habitats.

Click on a species card to find out more

Hedgerow species
Hazel dormouse

Hedges provide dormice with a variety of fruits, nuts and insects and a warm place to hibernate during the winter.

Hedgerow wildlife
European hedgehog

Hedgehogs may choose hedgerows to build their winter shelter. They also provide a source of food and safe passage to move between habitats.
Hedgerow wildlife
Bank vole

Our smallest species of vole can be found in hedgerows amongst the dense vegetation looking for nuts, berries and small insects.
Hedgerow wildlife
Bats

A variety of bat rely on hedges as green ‘commuter routes’ to safely move between roosting and feeding sites. They also provide insect food.
Hedgerow wildlife
Buff-tailed bumblebee

During winter, queens will use hedge banks to hibernate underground. For the rest of the year bees rely on hedges for food and nesting.
Hedgerow widllife
Birds

Woodland and farmland birds use well-managed hedgerows for a range of behaviours including foraging, nesting and roosting.