Wildlife

Wild Hedgehog Supplementary Feeding Best Practices

Garden feeding stations support hedgehog populations but require careful management to avoid spreading disease and creating nutritional dependency.

Key Facts

Hedgehog numbers have declined by over 50% in rural UK since 2000
Supplementary feeding helps hedgehogs build fat reserves before hibernation
Feeding stations should be cleaned weekly to prevent Salmonella transmission
Wet cat or dog food and specific hedgehog food are appropriate; never bread or milk
Multiple hedgehogs sharing a feeding station increases disease transmission risk

Welfare Considerations

Supplementary feeding provides welfare benefits by supporting hedgehogs through challenging periods, but poorly managed stations can cause harm. Clean, appropriate food in sheltered stations that are accessible to hedgehogs but not cats provides the best welfare outcomes.

What You Can Do

Use a purpose-designed hedgehog feeding station with a small entrance
Offer appropriate protein-rich foods and change them daily
Clean feeding stations weekly with hot water and mild disinfectant
Connect your garden to neighbour gardens by creating hedgehog highways