Keep Wildlife Safe This Bonfire Night in Eastbourne
27th October 2025
... Comments
As we near Halloween and Bonfire Night, please take time to stop and consider our local wildlife.
Strategically made piles of wood, leaves and garden debris - for the intention of burning - make a perfect cozy home for a range of wildlife, including hedgehogs, frogs, toads, alongside a range of other animal species. Unfortunately, any animal which is present in the pile should it be lit often does not have adequate time to escape.
🔥 Consider rebuilding or completely constructing the bonfire when you are ready to light it. This means that there is significantly less time for animals to move into a pre-made home!
🔥 You can purchase metal bonfire cages, which means that animals are not able to access the structure
Â
🔥 When you light a bonfire, light one side only. This provides a small window of opportunity for any species who have set up home to escape
Â
🔥 Have a container of water available to provide to any animals who have been a victim of a bonfire
Â
Should you encounter a wildlife casualty:
âť—Any wild animal found escaping from a lit bonfire requires checking over. Burns are not always obvious, and smoke inhalation can cause significant breathing issues
Â
âť—Seek help from a vet or rescue centre urgently
Â
If you find an injured or distressed animal this Bonfire Night, contact
East Sussex WRAS for urgent advice and support.Â
SUPPORT US
East Sussex Wildlife Rescue Ambulance Service receives no Government funding; therefore we are entirely dependant on the generosity of our supporters. Any donation is gratefully received, whether this be a one-off gift or signing up to send monthly donations.
Visit: wildlifeambulance.org/donate to find out more and how to donate
