Wildlife

Wild Hedgehog Weight at Hibernation

Hedgehogs entering hibernation underweight face significant mortality risk. Understanding weight thresholds helps conservation and rehabilitation efforts.

Key Facts

Hedgehogs should weigh at least 600g before hibernation to survive winter
Juveniles born late in the year may be too small to survive if unsupported
Late juveniles found out during the day in October-November need urgent help
Supplementary feeding with meat-based wet cat food can prevent starvation
Wildlife rehabilitators overwinter underweight hedgehogs until spring release

Welfare Considerations

Underweight hedgehogs entering hibernation do not survive winter, dying from starvation when fat reserves are exhausted. Those that emerge prematurely face cold exposure and starvation. Identifying underweight juveniles and supporting them to reach safe weight before winter prevents significant welfare harm and unnecessary death.

What You Can Do

Provide supplementary food in autumn to support hedgehog weight gain
Weigh hedgehogs found in gardens in late autumn - under 600g needs help
Contact a local wildlife hospital if you find a small hedgehog out in daylight in autumn