Ghosts in the Hedgerow: who or what is responsible for our favourite mammal’s decline

A necessary nature book that investigates the evidence of the decline in hedgehog numbers and the trade-offs between humans and wildlife.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 21 March 2024
Publisher: Transworld Publishers Ltd

A delightful read! Hugh Warwick, an esteemed ecologist and author, has penned A Prickly Affair, a hilarious and heartwarming tale. Lee Schofield, another talented author, has brought us Wild Fell, a triumph of storytelling. Charles Foster, the author of Cry of the Wild, Being a Human, and A Little Brown Sea, has crafted a masterpiece that is both a necessary nature book and a work of prose as sharp as prickles.

John Lewis-Stempel's A Body Lies Motionless on the Ground is a captivating exploration of a mysterious crime. This small creature, with its snouty head and spines, is undoubtedly dead before its time, and all those gathered around the corpse are suspects. Who among them could be responsible for this crime and the disappearance of countless hedgehogs in recent decades? Is it the car driver, the badger, the farmer, the gardener, or someone else? Who could have a grudge against these beloved mammals, who consistently rank as our favorite species in poll after poll?

However, the reality is disheartening. The numbers of hedgehogs have halved in less than twenty years, a staggering decline that demands our attention. Tom Moorhouse, with his magnifying glass in hand, embarks on a vital mission to bring those responsible to justice, prevent further murders, and save a species. Through his diligent investigation, he uncovers a story full of twists, turns, and uncomfortable truths about the trade-offs that exist between humans and wildlife.

Yet, Moorhouse remains optimistic. He sees a solution to the crisis that threatens the hedgehog population. He encourages us to embrace a harmonious coexistence with these remarkable creatures, recognizing the importance of preserving their habitats and protecting them from harm. A Prickly Affair is a testament to the power of storytelling and the urgent need to address the challenges facing our natural world. It reminds us that we are all responsible for the well-being of the planet and its inhabitants, and that by working together, we can create a future where wildlife thrives and our planet remains a beautiful and sustainable home for generations to come.

Weight: 192g
Dimension: 198 x 127 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781804991954