Hedgehogs are preparing to hibernate for the winter, but there are ways to encourage them to visit your garden. A gardening expert has shared a simple tip to attract themEllen Jenne U35 Spare Time Writer, Katie-Ann Gupwell Content Editor and Kathryn Riddell Multimedia Journalist
08:49, 27 Oct 2025
A hedgehog on green grass(Image: Getty Images/Love Sunday)
October marks the end of the hedgehog foraging season. This is when they’re most busy, making it the perfect opportunity to catch sight of them roaming through your garden.
Whilst they’re getting ready to settle down for their winter hibernation, there are steps you can take to draw them onto your property. Since the species is experiencing a decline, these efforts provide the added benefit of giving hedgehogs a crucial helping hand.
In a video shared on TikTok, gardening specialist Deb shared some simple tips for attracting them. She outlined that there are easy ways to draw them in.
To encourage their presence, she noted you just need to put one main approach into practice.
Deb said: “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”, reports the Mirror.
“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.
“A log pile, compost heap or purpose-built house in a shaded spot will give hedgehogs a safe place to rest and hibernate. Provide food and water, not milk.
“Contrary to popular belief, milk is bad for hedgehogs. Do not leave milk out. Leave out fresh water.”
She added you can also buy hedgehog biscuits to sprinkle throughout your garden for them. This will give them some tasty snacks to munch on.
She also noted that hedgehogs have a particular fondness for gardens with leafy trees, so it’s worth keeping this in mind. If you don’t have these, Deb suggested planting some could be beneficial.
Why are hedgehogs attracted to shelter?
Hedgehogs are drawn to gardens as they offer a secure environment complete with food, water and shelter. These elements are crucial for them to rest, breed and hibernate safely.
They typically favour quiet, dry and secluded spots found in gardens. Compost heaps, log piles or areas under sheds and dense foliage are among their preferred hideouts.
That’s why creating a “wild corner” with a stack of logs, leaves and garden debris is advantageous, as it provides ideal nesting material and shelter. You can also buy or build a purpose-made hedgehog house.
If you’re currently using your fireplace more often, you’ll be glad to know they love log piles. These provide both food and shelter.
Log piles create a habitat for insects like beetles and woodlice, which are primary food sources for hedgehogs.
They also offer a safe refuge for hedgehogs to hibernate, breed and rest as the piles provide protection from predators. Introducing some simple features into your garden can encourage them to visit.
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