- Rescue groups warn “check before you chop”: hedgehogs nest in hedges, compost heaps and under sheds, and strimmers or moved sheds can injure or orphan them.
- Numbers are plummeting — Jersey’s group has seen only nine hedgehogs this year and both islands are caring for injured or orphaned babies.
- Easy ways to help: don’t move sheds until winter, carefully check before cutting or strimming, and leave out water during hot spells.
Latest stories in Home & Garden.
- TODAY editorial director Adrianna Brach rounded up budget-friendly summer essentials — everything under $40.
- Standouts include a satisfying exfoliating shower towel and a handy jewelry holder, along with other seasonal finds.
- Perfect for a quick refresh or easy, affordable gifts this summer.
- California homeowners are facing an escalating wildfire crisis that makes protecting homes a growing concern.
- Home sprinkler defense systems are being promoted as a practical way to reduce fire risk—and they may lower some insurance premiums.
- NBC News reporter Dana Griffin highlighted the systems as a possible, newsworthy option for homeowners thinking about wildfire preparedness.
- Bears emerging from hibernation are being spotted more often across the U.S.
- Odd encounters include bears getting stuck in storm drains and wandering into homes.
- Connecticut officials report a 700% rise in human–bear conflicts over the past decade as bears expand their range.
- An Essex builder’s botched extensions left homes unsafe — one couple described theirs as a “bomb site,” with exposed walls, rats and collapse risk.
- The couple spent £75,000, were briefly arrested after the builder accused them of harassment, were later apologised to by police and awarded £85,000 compensation.
- Other clients report similar horror stories—one had a garden office smashed with a chainsaw—and several victims say their relationships and mental health were badly damaged.
- After a record-breaking heat wave, the Northeast has flipped to a wintry mix in the middle of spring — major temperature whiplash.
- About 81 million people from the Midwest through the Northeast are under frost and freeze alerts through Tuesday morning.
- The sudden cold could damage spring plants and disrupt outdoor plans and commutes — a natural small-talk opener about gardens or travel.
Get the full experience in the app — topics, comments, and audio summaries.