Hedgehogs need a little help as they begin to hibernate in November, and you can complete a simple task to encourage them to visit your garden
19:34, 15 Nov 2025Updated 19:34, 15 Nov 2025
(Image: Oksana Schmidt via Getty Images)
Hedgehogs start hibernating in November, but they require our assistance to make it through the winter, and there’s a straightforward task you can do to encourage them to visit and settle in your garden.
These charming little animals can actually stay active until December when conditions are mild. Additionally, they may also wake from hibernation to relocate their nests or search for food before returning to sleep.
However, experts recommend one particular action to support them in November and the following months, with a crucial item in your garden helping them both survive and flourish during winter. Wear Referrals Veterinary Specialist has recently shared guidance on how people can assist hedgehogs this month. It’s remarkably straightforward, requiring just one thing to be placed in your garden.
According to specialists, there are several ways you can help safeguard them. First, you can establish a “hedgehog highway” by providing access across your garden, which can be done by making holes in your fence.
You can also leave out a dish of water for them to drink, or some plain cat food for sustenance. Steer clear of offering them bread or milk as this can make them ill, reports the Express.
If a hedgehog appears content and healthy, you should typically leave it alone, and you shouldn’t interfere with nests. It’s also vital to cease using garden chemicals if you encounter hedgehogs, as these can cause them harm.
Supplying hedgehogs with food and water is crucial during winter as they awaken to forage. Offering additional food aids them in building and maintaining the fat reserves required to last until spring.
Even while hibernating, hedgehogs expend energy and need to eat to survive. Foraging is vital to replenish energy and for bodily functions, and if temperatures plummet sufficiently, they can freeze.
Interestingly, they have a fondness for cat food. It can be a beneficial addition to their diet, particularly if it’s high-quality, meat-based and grain-free.
If you plan to leave some out for them, both wet or dry food are acceptable. The essential step is to provide it alongside fresh water and avoid foods like milk, bread and mealworms, which are harmful to them.
How to assist hedgehogs
Hedgehogs need a little help this winter(Image: Getty)
Advice was also offered on what action to take if you’re ever concerned about a hedgehog. If you spot one during daylight hours that appears weak, lethargic or infested with fleas, immediate action is necessary.
If they appear particularly small during the winter months, they also require your assistance. A weight of less than 450g could be cause for concern.
All you need to do if you’re worried is place them in a box with a wrapped hot water bottle. Then reach out to your nearest wildlife rescue centre for advice on the next steps.
Always seek professional assistance from an animal expert, but keep the hedgehog comfortable in the box until it can be seen. This is a simple rule that should always be adhered to.
Nevertheless, by setting out a bowl of water outdoors, you’ll be contributing to their wellbeing during the winter months. You might also consider providing some food.
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