Often substances are applied to hedgehogs so thickly that the spines stick together. If someone really thinks it is necessary to mark a hog – which I think is totally unnecessary as well as unkind – all that is required is a marking on a very few spines, ensuring that none of the spines stick together. That should be enough for someone to identify the hog easily, even on a camera.
The following is an extract from British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS) FAQs.
Can I ‘mark’ my hedgehogs?
We’re pretty sure a hedgehog would rather not be marked, but if you are going to do it, please do ensure that you use a non-toxic water-based marker and mark just a few spines of the hedgehog. Keep the mark away from the hedgehog’s face and mark it in the garden on the ground rather than picking it up/bringing it indoors. Please don’t use red as people may mistake it for blood and ‘rescue’ it. Do not make hedgehog conspicuous to predators. We have seen some very sad images of poor hedgehogs practically covered in paint! If you are watching the hedgehogs on a wildlife camera you will often be able to tell them apart over time without the need for marking.
