Erfurt protects hedgehogs: Night driving ban for robotic lawnmowers from now on!
Erfurt protects hedgehogs: Night driving ban for robotic lawnmowers from now on!
In the past few weeks, the city of Erfurt has taken a step in the right direction for nature conservation. On July 2, 2025, a night driving ban comes into force for the robotic lawnmowers, which benefits the hedgehog and other nocturnal animals. According to thuringia and nature protection office, this was decided to protect the hedgehog population, which increasingly put in urban areas goes back.
The ban states that robotic lawnmowers may not be operated half an hour before sunset and half an hour after sunrise. This means that the devices at night, when the hedgehogs are often looking for food, must no longer be active. The city also plans sample controls to monitor this regulation. Anyone who violates the ban must expect fines of up to 50,000 euros.
a step in the right direction
The measure is not only discussed in Erfurt. Cities like Cologne and Leipzig are also in exchange and check similar bans. In Leipzig, for example, around 400 hedgehogs are injured by robotic lawnmowers annually, with about 10 % of these animals die from the consequences. This is alarming, because hedgehogs in Germany are with special protection and contribute to combating pests in gardens, such as ZDF today reports.
The Erfurt model could serve as a model for many cities. According to the information from Test.de A proposal for a night driving ban is currently being checked, which should also apply from 30 minutes before sunset to 30 minutes after sunrise. It shows that there is a broad consensus to put the hedgehog in the first place.
practical tips for garden owners
For garden owners who use robotic lawnmowers, there are numerous recommendations. It is advisable to operate the devices during the day, since hedgehogs are particularly active at dusk and night. Robotic robots with sensors that can recognize and bypass obstacles are a safer choice. In addition, experts advise experts to leave corners in the garden unexpectedly and to put on dead wood or compost heaps to offer the hinge habitat and food.
The Erfurt initiative and the aiming ban are clear signals for nature conservation. It remains to be seen how other cities will follow up, but the discussion is in full swing. With the right steps we can help our hinges, which are increasingly under pressure in urban areas. You deserve to be careful!
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| Ort | Erfurt, Deutschland |
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