Hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) have declined by over 50% in the UK since the year 2000. Gardens are increasingly important refugia for hedgehogs as rural habitat quality deteriorates. Simple garden management changes can significantly benefit local hedgehog populations.
Hedgehogs travel 1-2km per night and require movement between gardens. Solid fences are the single greatest barrier to hedgehog movement in urban areas. Hedgehog highways — 13cm x 13cm gaps at the base of garden boundaries — allow hedgehogs to travel through multiple gardens. The British Hedgehog Preservation Society promotes the #HedgehogHighway campaign to create connected networks of hedgehog-friendly gardens.
Providing supplementary food benefits hedgehogs, particularly in autumn before hibernation and in spring when emerging from hibernation with depleted fat reserves. Suitable foods: proprietary hedgehog food, cat or kitten food (meaty, not fish-based), mealworms (in small quantities only — high in phosphorus, can cause metabolic bone disease if fed in excess). Fresh water should be available at all times; hedgehogs are unable to digest cow's milk and it should never be offered. Feeding stations with baffles prevent food being taken by cats.
Hedgehogs hibernate from approximately November to March. Suitable hibernation sites: log piles, leaf piles, compost heaps, and purpose-built hedgehog houses placed in quiet, sheltered corners of the garden. Avoid disturbing potential hibernation sites during autumn and winter. Hedgehog houses should be dry, well-insulated (packed with dry leaves), and positioned against a wall or fence.
Signs a hedgehog needs help: out in daylight (except nursing mothers at dusk), wobbling or collapsed, visibly injured. Contact your local hedgehog rescue, wildlife hospital, or the British Hedgehog Preservation Society helpline (01584 890801) for guidance. Keep the hedgehog warm, in a box with ventilation, until professional help is available.