Wildlife Welfare

Wild Hedgehog Hibernation Welfare

Hibernation is a critical phase of hedgehog annual biology, with welfare implications from garden management and climate change.

Key Facts

Hedgehogs typically hibernate from November to March in the UK, depending on temperature
Insufficient fat reserves before hibernation lead to midwinter death from starvation
Garden bonfires and compost heaps are common sites where hibernating hedgehogs are killed
Mild winters caused by climate change disrupt hibernation with welfare consequences
Supplementary feeding in autumn supports fat accumulation before hibernation entry

Welfare Considerations

Hibernation welfare for hedgehogs requires both appropriate natural conditions and awareness from garden owners. Hedgehogs killed in garden bonfires experience a sudden, violent death that is entirely preventable with simple precautions. Midwinter mortality from inadequate fat reserves is a chronic welfare harm associated with unfavourable pre-hibernation conditions. Autumn feeding support and bonfire safety checks are meaningful welfare interventions.

What You Can Do

Check bonfires and leaf piles before burning to prevent hedgehog deaths
Feed hedgehogs in autumn to support pre-hibernation weight gain
Provide hedgehog hibernation habitat through log piles and dense hedging