Hedgehog Hub
Discover the Hedgehog Hub – celebrating Ross-on-Wye’s iconic emblem and sharing ways to help protect this much-loved species.
Welcome to the Town Council’s Hedgehog Hub where we are looking at the importance of these wonderful creatures and the connection to the town.
Hedgehogs have a long history and special association with Ross-on-Wye.
The hedgehog is an ancient emblem of Ross-on-Wye, which dates back to 450 AD and links to an ancient kingdom called ‘Archenfield’ (Land of Urchins).
The residents of Archenfield were excellent archers who were employed as mercenaries in various royal armies from the ninth century up to and including King Henry VIII’s reign.
In St Mary’s church, there are hedgehog icons that date back to the seventeenth century on old family crests (Kyrle and Abrahall) up to more recent memorials including the Boer War and WWII.
Why hedgehogs need our help
Their numbers have dropped dramatically, with populations in rural areas declining by between a third and three-quarters nationally in the last two decades. In urban areas, hedgehog numbers might be starting to recover thanks to people’s efforts in their gardens and green spaces.
How you can help
