Research Reveals European Hedgehogs' Ultrasonic Hearing Could Aid Conservation Efforts

A study published in Biology Letters on March 11, 2026, reveals European hedgehogs possess hearing capabilities extending into ultrasonic ranges, detecting frequencies from 4,000 to 85,000 hertz with peak sensitivity around 40,000 Hz. Led by wildlife ecologist Sophie Lund Rasmussen from the University of Oxford, researchers used CT scans and brain activity monitoring on rehabilitated animals from Danish wildlife centers to create detailed ear models. This discovery suggests ultrasonic deterrents could be developed to protect the declining species from threats like vehicle collisions and habitat loss. The International Union for Conservation of Nature lists hedgehogs as 'near threatened' globally, with UK populations dropping significantly. Further research is needed to determine practical applications and whether hedgehogs use ultrasound for communication.