Wildlife

Hedgehog Hibernation and Winter Survival Welfare

Hibernation is a critical period for hedgehog welfare, with poor body condition before winter leading to starvation and death.

Key Facts

Hedgehogs need to weigh at least 600g before hibernation to survive the winter
Mild autumn weather can delay hibernation, reducing fat reserves
Juvenile hedgehogs born late in the year are most at risk
Hedgehog hospitals admit large numbers of underweight animals each autumn

Welfare Considerations

Starvation during and after hibernation is a significant cause of hedgehog mortality. Supplementary feeding in autumn and wildlife-friendly gardens can directly improve survival rates.

What You Can Do

Leave supplementary food (cat or dog food, not bread or milk) in autumn
Create leaf piles or hedgehog houses for safe hibernation sites
Support local hedgehog rescue charities that overwinter underweight animals