Wildlife

Hedgehog Hibernation Weight and Welfare

Hedgehog hibernation success depends on adequate pre-hibernation body weight and suitable hibernation site quality.

Key Facts

Hedgehogs require a minimum body weight of approximately 450-600g before safe hibernation
Underweight hedgehogs entering hibernation are at high risk of death from energy depletion
Mild autumns delay hibernation causing hedgehogs to miss optimal weight gain windows
Garden bonfires and leaf pile disturbance in autumn kills hibernating hedgehogs
Nest boxes filled with hay or dry leaves provide safe, insulated hibernation sites in gardens

Welfare Considerations

Underweight hedgehogs attempting hibernation face a slow death from starvation as their energy reserves are exhausted. Timely intervention by wildlife rehabilitators for hedgehogs found underweight in late autumn saves many lives each year. Garden hibernation sites and supplementary food in October and November directly improve survival welfare.

What You Can Do

Contact your local wildlife rehabilitator if you find a hedgehog active after November and weighing less than 450g
Create a hedgehog hibernation box with dry leaves or hay in a sheltered garden spot
Check bonfires before lighting and avoid disturbing leaf piles in autumn
Follow British Hedgehog Preservation Society guidance on pre-hibernation hedgehog care