The reminder comes after East Lothian Council’s amenities team added stickers to their machinery to remind users to check for the elusive creatures before carrying out the work.
Hedgehogs are particularly at risk during gardening season, as they often hide in long grass and do not flee from noise, instead curling into a ball, a defence that offers no protection against strimmers.
Gordon Whitelaw, Dunbar depot manager at the council’s amenities service, said: “Hedgehogs are crucial for maintaining biodiversity and we’re pleased to play our part in protecting them.
“We’ve been raising awareness amongst our teams to check for hedgehogs when they’re working in West Barns Primary School’s grounds, as well as other areas we look after.
“We’re delighted to be part of Sustaining Dunbar’s Pledgehog project.”
The council’s amenities team added stickers to their machinery to remind the user to check for hedgehogs (Image: Sustain Dunbar)
Jen Walker, Pledgehog officer, said: “We welcome Gordon’s team looking out for hedgehogs when strimming and carrying out their work.
“I hope this practice will become commonplace.
“Often people don’t imagine coming across a hedgehog when gardening, as they haven’t seen one around before.
“However, I urge you to assume there is one hiding in any long grass and check, rather than finding out once it’s too late.”
The risk to hedgehogs is highest around boundary walls, fences and under bushes or hedges.
People are encouraged to leave these areas uncut when possible, or to check thoroughly before strimming.
Ms Walker recommended gently checking with a brush or rake, or with a gloved hand at ground level, and cutting grass in stages, removing the top section first to improve visibility.
The council say hedgehogs do not flee from noise, instead curling into a ball (Image: Sustain Dunbar)
Such precautions can prevent avoidable injuries and save hedgehog lives.
Those who find a sick or injured hedgehog are advised to contact Burntisland Hedgehog Haven on 07577 000328 or visit burntislandhedgehoghaven.co.uk for advice and support.
More information about the Pledgehog Project and other sustainability initiatives can be found at sustainingdunbar.org
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