Historically, the Zoo has had a significant population of hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus), both on its grounds and throughout the Ciutadella Park. The environment provided by the Zoo with regard to plants and vegetation and naturalised spaces make this Barcelona park the perfect habitat for the species. However, for different causes the population has dropped appreciably in recent years.

Now, the Zoo—in collaboration with Galanthus —has released four of these lovely little animals coming from the Torreferrusa Wildlife Rescue Centre (rescued animals) with the aim of strengthening the wild hedgehog group at the park and of ensuring their viability. 

To this end, we built a new acclimatisation facility (from which the hedgehogs can come and go freely after becoming accustomed to their new home), established care and feeding protocols and monitored them via satellite locators on their first days, to make sure that their movements in the ‘open’ did not put them in danger (roads, railway and tram tracks, etc.). Finally, security measures were implemented to prevent any possible accidents that could harm them at the Zoo facilities.

Until now, the release of hedgehogs has been successful, which is why more will be released soon, after being acclimatised in the new facility.