October is peak hedgehog season in Ireland and gardeners can attract these visitors by doing one simple thing.
October marks the peak of the hedgehog foraging season in Ireland(Image: TikTok / debs_inthegarden)
October marks the peak of the hedgehog foraging season in Ireland, and this is the time of year you’re most likely to spot these spiky visitors in your garden.
As the nights grow colder and hedgehogs prepare to hibernate, there are simple steps Irish gardeners can take to make their outdoor spaces more welcoming – and give the declining species a much-needed boost.
Gardening expert Deb recently shared some tips on her @debs_inthegarden TikTok for attracting hedgehogs. She says the first and most important step is creating a hedgehog highway.
Deb explained: “Now, it may seem simple, but the first thing to do is make sure you have a hedgehog highway. Hedgehogs can roam up to one mile each night. If you have a fenced garden, make sure that there’s a gap in the fence, or a gap under your garden gate. Provide shelter for the hedgehog.”
The TikToker added that shelter is also key. Hedgehogs need safe, quiet places to rest and hibernate. A log pile, compost heap or purpose-built hedgehog house in a shaded corner of your garden can provide the perfect spot.
She said: “A log pile, compost heap or purpose-built house in a shaded spot will give hedgehogs a safe place to rest and hibernate.”
Feeding hedgehogs correctly is another easy way to help, Manchester Evening News reports. Deb warned against leaving out milk, which can harm them. Instead, offer fresh water and hedgehog-friendly food such as biscuits specially designed for them.
Deb added: “Provide food and water, not milk. Contrary to popular belief, milk is bad for hedgehogs. Do not leave milk out. Leave out fresh water.”
Hedgehogs are drawn to quiet, secluded areas with plenty of cover, like dense foliage, sheds, compost heaps or piles of leaves and logs. Creating a “wild corner” in your garden not only gives them nesting material, but also attracts insects like beetles and woodlice, their main food sources.
Log piles are particularly valuable, providing both food and shelter while keeping hedgehogs safe from predators.
Content cannot be displayed without consent
Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from the Irish Mirror direct to your inbox: Sign up here.
Comments are closed.