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ShareKeeping Wildlife Safe This Bonfire Night
As Bonfire Night draws near and the air turns crisp, few pleasures match the glow and warmth of a fire shared with friends and family. At Kadai, we cherish those moments with crackling embers and stories told under the autumn sky.
Yet, as we get ready to celebrate, it's important to keep in mind the quiet lives surrounding us. Many hedgehogs and small mammals are heading into hibernation now, and a traditional bonfire built directly on the ground can pose a serious risk.
Why Use a Kadai Firebowl
Unlike ground-level bonfires, the Kadai Firebowl is elevated, a contained vessel that keeps the fire above soil level. This makes it a safer option than a bonfire on the ground, where animals might just be taking shelter.
This year, we've teamed up with Cuan Wildlife Rescue & Education Centre, just up the road from us, to share their valuable insight and tips on making Bonfire Night safer for our local wildlife.
"Animals, such as hedgehogs, toads, frogs may see bonfires as a nesting area, somewhere warm and dry to seek refuge, this shelter can end up putting them in an incredibly dangerous situation. We would ask that people be mindful of this impact and have a pre bonfire checklist to protect our wildlife. Pick a safe location, this means away from log piles or wildlife friendly areas in gardens and parks. Building a bonfire on the day mitigates many problems. Using a raised bonfire or contained fire helps to reduce the chance of animals using fires as a safe place to hide. Lastly, once the celebrations have ended, have a look around the area for any injured or struggling animals and always feel free to call Cuan if you have any questions or need assistance" Dani Peat, Hospital Manager, Cuan Wildlife Rescue.
Cuan Wildlife Rescue is the only wildlife rescue centre in Shropshire, and they specialise in rescuing, caring for and rehabilitating sick, injured or orphaned wild animals and birds, then returning them to the wild.
Each year they admit around 6,000 wildlife casualties, giving each patient first aid, veterinary care (in partnership with Severn Edge Veterinary Group), and ongoing rehabilitation.
It costs around £40,000 each month to keep the centre running. If you're able, please consider making a donation, every penny truly makes a difference. - DONATE HERE
Wildlife-Friendly Bonfire Tips
If you choose a traditional bonfire, these precautions can help reduce risk to native wildlife:
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Build it on the day — Avoid giving hedgehogs time to nest in the pile.
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Check beneath carefully — Gently lift logs and inspect the ground before lighting.
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Choose a firepit alternative — A raised fire structure like the Kadai ensures wildlife stays undisturbed.
These small steps make a big difference in protecting animals that share our space.
Celebrate With Warmth and Care
A Kadai Firebowl offers a thoughtful way to enjoy Bonfire Night, bringing people together around the warmth of the fire while helping to protect the wildlife that shares our gardens.
Browse our firepit collection here, and gather safely, cook joyfully, and light your fire with respect for all the life around you.
