Wild Animals

Wild Hedgehog Hibernation Support

Hedgehog hibernation is a critical survival period vulnerable to disturbance, premature awakening and insufficient fat reserves in urban environments with fragmented habitat.

Key Facts

Hedgehogs typically hibernate from November to March depending on temperature
They need to weigh at least 600g before hibernation to survive the winter
Mild winters can cause premature arousal from hibernation before food is available
Garden bonfires and log piles are popular hibernation sites that should be checked before disturbance

Welfare Considerations

Hedgehogs that fail to reach sufficient body weight before hibernation die during the cold period from fat depletion. Premature arousal during mild spells causes energy expenditure that cannot be recouped if subsequent cold returns. Bonfire disturbance ejects hibernating hedgehogs into life-threatening cold. Supplementary autumn feeding can help underweight hedgehogs reach hibernation weight in fragmented urban habitats.

What You Can Do

Provide supplementary feeding (wet cat food, not bread or milk) in autumn
Check bonfires and log piles thoroughly before disturbing
Create a purpose-built hibernation habitat in an undisturbed garden corner
Leave fallen leaves in garden corners as natural insulation for hibernating hedgehogs