What plans does the Welsh Government have to increase protection for hedgehogs, which are listed as a species of principal importance for conservation of biological diversity in Wales?
The current legislative and policy framework the Welsh Government has put in place provides protection for hedgehogs.
The hedgehog is listed under section 7 of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016 as a species of principle importance. Public authorities have a duty under the Act to seek to maintain and enhance biodiversity whilst carrying out its functions and in doing so have regard to the section 7 list.
The Welsh Government funds the NRW-led Natur am Byth project, which delivers priority actions, as identified in the refreshed Nature Recovery Action plan, to support habitats and species of principle importance.