Hedgehog Hibernation Welfare and Garden Safety

Hedgehogs are the only British mammals that truly hibernate, but urban environments create hazards during their dormancy and emergence. Understanding their needs helps protect this declining species.

Key Facts

UK hedgehog populations have declined by over 50% since the 1990s due to habitat loss and fragmentation
Hedgehogs typically hibernate from November to March, though mild winters cause premature awakening
A hedgehog emerging in daylight is usually in trouble and needs immediate assessment
Garden bonfires built in autumn frequently harbour hibernating hedgehogs within the pile
Slug pellets containing metaldehyde kill hedgehogs that consume poisoned slugs
Hedgehog highways — 13cm square gaps in garden fences — dramatically increase available territory

Welfare Considerations

Hedgehogs face multiple hazards in gardens including strimmers, bonfires, garden chemicals, and ponds without escape ramps. A hedgehog that enters hibernation underweight (below 600g) will not survive the winter. The combination of habitat fragmentation, chemical exposure, and direct mortality from garden equipment makes urban gardens both sanctuary and hazard for this species.

What You Can Do

Check bonfire piles immediately before lighting by lifting sections with gloves or a broom handle
Install hedgehog highway gaps (13x13cm) at the base of garden fences
Provide a shallow ramp or rough stone in garden ponds to allow hedgehogs to climb out
Stop using slug pellets and switch to physical barriers, copper tape, or wildlife-friendly alternatives
Leave areas of garden wild with log piles and leaf litter for nesting and foraging
Weigh any hedgehog found out in daylight — under 600g in autumn needs wildlife rescue help