A giant hedgehog was unveiled on Clapham Common to mark the launch of a new David Attenborough series.

Wandsworth Times:

The prickly 7ft structure, which was scaled to be bigger than a rhinoceros, took a team of sculptors over two months to build.

It is crafted from natural materials including 2,000 soft wood spikes, fake fur and coconut fibre.

Wandsworth Times:

The sculpture aims to highlight the findings of a survey which found 25 per cent of British adults have never seen a hedgehog.

A total of 74 per cent of people are concerned with the dwindling numbers of hedgehogs and think more should be done to protect them.

Wandsworth Times:

Sir David Attenborough, who presents the show, said: "The hedgehog is one of Britain’s greatest natural curiosities and this sculpture is a fitting tribute to one of our most delightful species.

"The fact that a quarter of British adults have never seen a wild hedgehog suggests that we are witnessing rapidly dwindling numbers which is a concern."

Wandsworth Times:

Natural Curiosities will be televised on February 18 at 8pm, on Watch.


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