Wildlife

Wild Hedgehog Weight at Hibernation

Hedgehog weight at the onset of hibernation is a critical determinant of winter survival and welfare.

Key Facts

Hedgehogs need to weigh at least 600g before hibernating to survive winter
Underweight hedgehogs that hibernate may die mid-winter from energy depletion
Late litters born in September-October frequently fail to reach adequate weight
Supplementary feeding of underweight autumn hedgehogs can save lives
Wildlife rehabilitation centres overwinter underweight hedgehogs until spring

Welfare Considerations

Underweight hedgehogs that hibernate die slowly from energy depletion - one of the most preventable wildlife welfare harms that garden action can address. Providing food to thin autumn hedgehogs and connecting them to rehabilitation if severely underweight directly saves individual lives. The welfare impact of garden food provision in autumn is significant and well-documented.

What You Can Do

Provide supplementary food for visiting hedgehogs in September and October
Weigh hedgehogs if possible and contact a rehabilitator for those under 450g
Support hedgehog rehabilitation centres that overwinter underweight animals