The Poznań Palm House (Palmiarnia Poznańska) invites everyone to the seventh edition of the Poznań Hedgehog Day. This educational event, scheduled for 9-10 November 2024, combines fun, awareness, and the celebration of the 15th anniversary of the Polish Association for the Protection of Hedgehogs “Nasze Jeże” (“Our Hedgehogs”).
Family-Friendly Workshops and Exhibitions
This year’s Poznań Hedgehog Day promises an array of attractions for visitors of all ages. The programme includes educational and creative workshops for children, informative exhibits, and awareness campaigns focusing on how we can collectively support hedgehog conservation. Attendees will have the chance to listen to experts and interact with representatives from wildlife rehabilitation centres. This unique event aims to engage the community in learning about protecting one of Poland’s most beloved animals.
Celebrating 15 Years of “Nasze Jeże” (“Our Hedgehogs”)
The 2024 event holds special significance as it marks 15 years of dedicated work by the Polish Association for the Protection of Hedgehogs, “Nasze Jeże” (“Our Hedgehogs”). Their slogan for the celebration, “15 Years with Heart for Hedgehogs – Our Mission, Their Future” (“Od 15 lat z sercem dla jeży – nasza misja, ich przyszłość”), highlights their longstanding commitment to these creatures. Over the years, the association has provided care to hundreds of hedgehogs and increased public awareness about the threats these animals face.
Why Hedgehog Day Matters
Celebrated on 10 November, Hedgehog Day in Poland is a time to learn more about these small, spiky creatures and find ways to support them. Although hedgehogs are commonly seen in parks and gardens, their populations are declining, mainly due to human activities. Urban expansion, busy roads, and unprotected green areas pose serious risks. By raising awareness and sharing knowledge about their habits and needs, events like this contribute significantly to their conservation.
A Place of History and Greenery: The Poznań Palm House
The Poznań Palm House (Palmiarnia Poznańska), the venue for this special event celebrating Poznań Hedgehog Day, boasts over a century of history. Situated in Wilson Park, it is the oldest and largest palm house in Poland and one of the oldest in Europe. It invites visitors on a journey through diverse climate zones, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of birds, flowing water, and aquariums teeming with fish. With over a thousand plant species on display, the Palm House is a perfect blend of education and leisure.
Hedgehog Fun Facts
Hedgehogs are among the oldest mammal species, existing for around 60 million years. In Poland, they have long been depicted in folk tales as gentle and helpful characters. Their distinctive bodies, covered with thousands of spines, serve as protection against predators. Hedgehogs can consume not only insects and small rodents but also snakes, making them valuable allies in gardens. However, despite their adaptability, hedgehogs face numerous challenges. Ensuring their safety involves creating safe spaces and avoiding activities like burning piles of leaves or using harmful chemicals.
Helping Hedgehogs: What You Can Do
Hedgehog Day is the perfect opportunity to learn how to support these creatures. Simple actions such as leaving small areas of your garden wild, with branches and leaves for shelter, can make a big difference. Educating friends and family about avoiding potentially harmful practices, like burning leaves or building barriers that block hedgehogs’ paths, is equally important. Small openings under fences can facilitate their movement, helping them find food and safe spaces.
Join the Celebration at the Palm House
The 2024 Hedgehog Day at the Poznań Palm House (Palmiarnia Poznańska) is more than just an educational event; it is a celebration of nature and our collective commitment to preserving it. With its historical charm and vibrant displays, the Palm House is the perfect venue for a day dedicated to understanding and appreciating hedgehogs. Visitors can join the activities from 9:00 to 17:00, with entry included in the Palm House ticket.
We look forward to seeing you there!
