Chester Zoo study reveals barriers to wildlife-friendly gardens in UK homes

Research by Chester Zoo scientists and Nottingham Trent University found that fewer than 40% of UK householders are willing or able to make their gardens more wildlife-friendly, despite widespread promotion of features like ponds and hedgehog highways. The study, published in People and Nature, identified lack of space, pet concerns, and maintenance worries as key barriers, and suggests policy changes and urban planning integration are needed to protect biodiversity at scale.