Projects
Our projects combine research, conservation and community action to protect hedgehogs across the Netherlands and beyond. From field surveys to citizen sience, every initiative contributes to a deeper understanding of hedgehog life. Discover our ongoing work and see how you can be a part of it.
Participate
Your contribution matters. Whether you have seen a hedgehog in your garden, found tracks, or simply want to help monitor wildlife, your participation can make a real difference. Join our ongoing projects, share your observations, and help us protect hedgehogs for future generations.
Introduction
At The Hedgehog Program, projects are at the heart of what we do.The image you see here shows a microspore slide containing the imprint of a European hedgehog hair and spine, part of an ongoing research projects in which we collect and study samples from all hedgehog, tenrec and gymnure species to examine the microscopic structure of their hairs and spines. This work helps us better understand species differenes and adaptations, and anyone can contribute by submitting samples.
While this is just one example of the work we do, our projects span a wide range of activities, from hand-ons conservation and field surveys to publishing research and involving the public through citizen science. Use the section below to explore our active projects, browse our publications or find out how you can participate.
Active projects
Discover the initiatives we are currently working on, from local habitat restoration to worldwide surveys. Each active project is driven by data, fieldwork, and collaboration, ensuring our efforts have the greatest possible impact.
Publications
Explore our scientific and eduational publications, where we share our findings with the world. From educational storybooks to practical guides and research, our publications aim to spread knowledge and inspire action.
Citizen science
Get involved by contributing your own obervations and data. Our citizen science projects connect people with their nearby environment, turning everyday encounters with hedgehogs or tenrecs into valuable research that supports conservation.
Collecting observations of European hedgehogs in the municipality of Hoogeveen
Featured project
In the municipality of Hoogeveen, we are gathering detailed observations of the European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus). Local residents are encouraged to report sightings, road casualties, and nesting activity. These records help us map population distribution, identfy threats, and develop practical conservation measures tailored to the area. Every observation, no matter how small, contributes to a better understanding of hedgehog life in Hoogeveen and supports their protection.