Hedgehogs must accumulate sufficient fat reserves during autumn to survive winter hibernation, and late-born juveniles face the greatest challenge reaching safe hibernation weight.
Hedgehogs that attempt hibernation underweight die during winter - a welfare harm affecting large numbers of late-born juveniles each year. Supplementary feeding in autumn with appropriate food provides targeted welfare benefit during the critical weight-gain period. Checking garden bonfires before lighting saves individual lives during one of the most dangerous times of year for hedgehogs.