Hedgehog populations are declining rapidly with less than one million thought to survive in the wilderness currently. Although they haven’t been classified as endangered yet, conservation specialists are encouraging property owners with yards to act and help protect these at-risk creatures as they get ready for their winter slumber.
The prickly animals usually enter hibernation from around October until March, although exact timing differs based on climate patterns and available food sources. These tiny creatures must gather adequate nesting materials and body fat before beginning their winter rest, and hibernating prematurely while temperatures stay warm risks wasting their energy reserves unnecessarily.
Homeowners can support this crucial process by providing hedgehogs with food, safe refuge and materials needed for hibernation. Scientists from Arbtech.co.uk described straightforward modifications gardeners can make to offer assistance. It comes as experts reveal one item to use on your lawn to avoid bald patches and root-eating pests this October.
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.”
Experts have cautioned against the use of items like slug pellets, pesticides, and other chemicals that could potentially poison hedgehogs in their search for winter sustenance. Instead, they recommend gardeners provide supplementary food such as plain kitten biscuits, meat-based wet dog or cat food, or even specialist hedgehog food.
Hedgehogs are lactose intolerant and don’t get much nutrition from bread, so it’s best to avoid leaving these items out. As nocturnal animals, hedgehogs will likely come for the food at night.
Experts suggest removing any uneaten food in the morning and replacing it with fresh offerings in the evening.
By using a sturdy wooden or plastic box with a removable lid, you can create the perfect safe feeding space. Cut out a hedgehog-sized hole at the base of one of the sides, then place the food and water inside, allowing the critters to feast without fear of predators.
However, hedgehogs won’t find these safe spaces if they’re unable to get through your fence. The experts suggested: “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.”
For those planning on tidying up their garden, creating the perfect hedgehog hibernation shelter could be as simple as leaving out piles of leaves and logs for the creatures to use in building their nests. Purpose-built hedgehog houses are also available for purchase.
The ecologists advised: “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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