France: Legal protections and care guidelines for European hedgehogs

In France, the European hedgehog is strictly protected under the Environmental Code, making it illegal to capture, injure, move, or keep these animals. Legislation also protects their natural habitats, including winter nests and feeding areas, even when the animals are not present. Violating these protections can result in fines of up to 150,000 euros.

While individuals often wish to assist hedgehogs appearing thin or active during the day, experts advise caution. According to the Ligue pour la Protection des Oiseaux (LPO), seeing a hedgehog during the day does not necessarily mean it is starving; it may simply have been disturbed. Signs of genuine distress include lethargy, being unable to move, injuries, or the presence of parasites.

For those looking to provide emergency aid to active hedgehogs in their gardens, the LPO suggests offering only cat kibble and shallow water. Providing milk or bread is discouraged. In cases of suspected distress or injury, the recommended course of action is to contact a wildlife rescue center rather than attempting a self-rescue.