Cambridge researchers have developed a novel approach to tracking hedgehog populations by using satellite imagery to detect brambles—dense shrubs that provide essential cover and nesting sites for the animals. While AI cannot directly identify hedgehogs from space, it can spot the plant life they rely on, offering a promising indirect method for mapping their habitats. The team used machine learning algorithms to analyze high-resolution satellite data, training models to recognize the distinctive patterns and textures of bramble thickets across the UK landscape. This technique allows conservationists to estimate where hedgehogs are likely to live, even in remote or hard-to-reach areas. The approach is particularly valuable given the sharp decline in hedgehog numbers in recent decades, with habitat loss being a major factor. By focusing on brambles as a proxy, researchers can monitor changes in suitable habitat over time and guide targeted conservation efforts. While not a direct observation, the method offers a scalable and cost-effective way to support wildlife protection using existing satellite technology and AI.