Ecologists are urging Brits to take action this winter to aid hedgehogs as they head into hibernation which can be a very dangerous time for the beloved but at risk creatures
Households with gardens may be able to help support hedgehogs in their hibernation(Image: GETTY)
Hedgehog populations in the UK are currently declining with fewer than one million estimated to be in the wild today. They aren’t yet classified as endangered but ecologists are calling on UK households with gardens to take actions and help protect the vulnerable creatures as they head into hibernation for the winter.
Hedgehogs tend to hibernate from around October until March, although the exact timings depend on weather and food availability. The tiny mammals have to build up their nests and fat reserves before burrowing away, and if they hibernate when the weather is not cold enough yet they risk using up their fat stores unnecessarily.
Gardeners can help in this process by providing hedgehogs with the food, safe spaces and tools they need to hibernate. Ecologists from Arbtech.co.uk explained the simple changes gardeners can make to lend a hand.
Leo Plevin from Arbtech said: “Hedgehogs are disappearing before our own eyes, but the good news is that families can make a real difference. Small things like leaving out a bowl of water, creating a gap in your fence, or even just leaving a pile of leaves in your garden can all help hedgehogs to thrive. Hibernation is a dangerous time for hedgehogs, but the smallest helping hand could ensure thousands make it through to spring.”
The experts warned people against using items like slug pellets, pesticides and other chemicals which could potentially poison hedgehogs if ingested while trying to find some winter food stores. Instead, gardeners can provide some supplementary food like plain kitten biscuits, meat-based wet dog or cat food or even specialist hedgehog food.
Hedgehogs are also lactose intolerant and don’t get a lot of nutrition from bread so it’s best to avoid leaving out these items. Hedgehogs are nocturnal so they will likely come for the food at night. It’s best to take away any uneaten food in the morning and replace it with some fresh offerings in the evening, according to the experts.
Using a sturdy wooden or plastic box with a removable lid, you can create the perfect safe feeding space to put this food in by carving out a hedgehog-sized hole at the base of one of the sides. Then place the food and water inside to allow the critters to feast without the fear of predators.
However, hedgehogs won’t find these safe spaces if they’re unable to get through your fence. The experts recommended: “Leaving small gaps in your fence, that are large enough for a hedgehog to fit through, can help them to roam freely in search of food.”
People who plan on cleaning up their garden may be able to create the perfect hedgehog hibernation shelter by leaving out piles of leaves and logs that the creatures can use to build their nests. Purpose-built hedgehog houses are also available to purchase.
The ecologists added: “If you come across a hedgehog that appears ill or injured in any way, it should be brought into care and you can contact local rescue groups for assistance. Some of the signs that may indicate a hedgehog is ill include it seeming lethargic, being out during the day, heavily breathing, and wobbling.”
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