Wildlife

Wild Hedgehog Hibernation Welfare

Hedgehog hibernation is a critical welfare period, with climate change disrupting timing and urban garden management affecting the availability of safe hibernation sites.

Key Facts

Hedgehogs typically hibernate from November to March in the UK
Weight below 450-500g at hibernation entry increases starvation risk during mild spells
Climate change is causing earlier emergence and later hibernation with higher survival costs
Garden bonfires are a major cause of hibernating hedgehog mortality in autumn
Undisturbed leaf piles, log stacks, and hedgehog boxes provide safe hibernation sites

Welfare Considerations

Disrupted hibernation causes hedgehogs to burn energy reserves without feeding, leading to starvation. Safe hibernation sites are an essential welfare provision in managed landscapes.

What You Can Do

Check bonfires for hibernating hedgehogs before lighting, especially in autumn
Provide leaf piles and log stacks as natural hibernation sites in gardens
Install hedgehog boxes in sheltered areas as supplementary hibernation habitat
Feed hedgehogs in autumn to help underweight animals reach safe hibernation weight