Protecting Wildlife During Halloween and Bonfire Night

At the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, we know how important it is to balance fun traditions with care for the creatures we share our spaces with. Whether it’s garden visitors like hedgehogs and birds, or coastal animals disturbed by noise and light, there are simple steps we can all take to keep wildlife safe this season. 

Halloween Hazards for Wildlife 

• Pumpkins 

Carved pumpkins may look festive, but once they’re left outside, they can pose risks. Hedgehogs, for example, may nibble on pumpkin flesh, which can upset their stomachs. Instead of leaving pumpkins to rot in the garden, dispose of them in your food waste collection or pop them in a compost bin.  

• Decorations 

Fake cobwebs and plastic decorations may look spooky, but they can easily entangle birds, bats, and small mammals. Try to keep decorations indoors or remove them promptly after Halloween night. 

• Candles and Lanterns 

Open flames placed outside can attract and harm insects, as well as pose a fire risk to small animals exploring in the dark. LED candles are a safe, wildlife-friendly alternative. 

Bonfire Night and Firework Safety 

• Bonfires 

Bonfire piles make a perfect shelter for hedgehogs, frogs, toads, and insects. To keep them safe: 

• Build your bonfire on the day you plan to light it, not in advance. 

• Always check the pile carefully with a torch before lighting. 

• Move the entire pile to a new spot if it’s been sitting for a while, to ensure no animals are hiding inside. 

• Fireworks 

The loud bangs and bright flashes of fireworks can be frightening for pets, farm animals, and wildlife alike. Birds may take flight in panic, while seals and other coastal animals can also be disturbed by unexpected noise. To reduce the impact: 

• Attend organised displays rather than setting off fireworks at home. 

• Choose “low noise” fireworks where possible. 

• Avoid areas close to nature reserves, rivers, and coastlines. 

How You Can Help Wildlife This Season 

• Provide Shelter: Leave out a log pile, leaf pile, or hedgehog house to give animals a safe alternative to a bonfire heap. 

• Keep Gardens Tidy After Events: Clear away litter, leftover fireworks, and decorations that could harm wildlife. 

• Spread the Word: Share these tips with family and friends so more people can celebrate responsibly. 

• Be Mindful on the Coast: If you’re near the sea during firework season, remember that seals and seabirds may be especially sensitive to disturbance. 

Celebrate Responsibly 

Halloween and Bonfire Night are wonderful traditions, and with just a few small steps, we can make them safer for the creatures that depend on our gardens, parks, and coastlines. With a little care, we can enjoy autumn’s festivities and ensure the wildlife around us remains safe and thriving.