Wildlife stars announced for new banknotes
The RSPCA saw a 30 per cent increase in hedgehog admissions in June and July this year.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has celebrated the new wildlife stars to appear on new Bank of England banknotes.
The four animals to appear on the notes will be barn owls, buff-tailed bumblebees, hedgehogs and Atlantic puffins.
While the charity praises the inclusion of these species, a spokesperson has said it is ‘a shame’ that less-loved species such as foxes, gulls, pigeons and rats did not make the final list. In a public vote, foxes were the fourth most popular choice for the banknotes.
Dr Rebecca Machin, wildlife expert at RSPCA, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to see these four wonderful animals celebrated on our banknotes. Barn owls, buff-tailed bumblebees, hedgehogs and puffins are all fascinating species and we’re thrilled they’re getting their chance to shine - and in our wallets! These will be a daily reminder of the UK’s precious biodiversity, and that how and where we spend our money can affect nature.
“It’s great that insects and marine animals will be represented, as they’re too often forgotten. But we can’t help feeling sorry for the foxes! It’s heartening to see they’re clearly well-loved by the public - having come fourth in the public vote - so it’s a shame they’ve been bumped from the final line-up of four notes!”
Despite its disappointment, says that the animals on the banknotes will provide a daily reminder of the things people can do to help wildlife and nature.
The charity has particularly highlighted the plight of hedgehogs, which it describes as ‘one of the UK’s best-loved wild animals’. Between 2021 and 2025, there were 9,198 hedgehogs admitted to RSPCA wildlife centres.
During June and July this year, the RSPCA noted a 30 per cent increase in hedgehog admissions to the RSPCA’s wildlife centres compared to 2025.
Dr Machin added: “We hope seeing hedgehogs more regularly on our banknotes will remind people that these animals need our help too. Simple things like leaving out fresh water and making our gardens more wildlife-friendly can make a real difference to hedgehogs, bees, and other animals.”
Companies marketing medicines for small pets exempt from authorisation must submit their annual return to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) by 30 November 2026.
