Wildlife

Feeding Wild Hedgehogs: Best Practice Guide

Supplementary feeding of wild hedgehogs can support declining populations, but must be done correctly to avoid causing harm.

Key Facts

UK hedgehog numbers have declined by over 50% since the 1990s
Supplementary feeding is most beneficial in autumn before hibernation
Hedgehogs are lactose intolerant and must never be given cows milk
Cat or dog meat-based food is suitable; never bread or milk
Fresh water should always be provided alongside food

Welfare Considerations

Well-intentioned feeding can cause welfare problems if inappropriate foods are provided. Bread causes malnutrition and milk causes severe digestive distress. Correctly fed hedgehogs gain weight reserves critical for surviving hibernation. Supplementary feeding combined with wildlife-friendly gardens creates supporting habitat that addresses multiple causes of hedgehog decline simultaneously.

What You Can Do

Provide meat-based cat or dog food and fresh water in shallow dishes
Never give milk, bread, mealworms as a main food, or processed foods
Create hedgehog highways by cutting holes in garden fences
Record sightings on citizen science platforms to help track populations