Wildlife

Supplementary Feeding and Hedgehog Welfare

Supplementary feeding of garden hedgehogs has become widespread and when done correctly can significantly benefit hedgehog welfare, particularly for underweight autumn juveniles.

Key Facts

Hedgehogs need to weigh at least 600g before hibernation to survive the winter
Juvenile hedgehogs born late in the season frequently fail to reach this weight
Suitable foods include specialist hedgehog food, cat food and dog food
Bread and milk are harmful to hedgehogs and should never be provided
Water provision is important alongside supplementary food

Welfare Considerations

Correctly provided supplementary food can be the difference between life and death for underweight hedgehogs. Late-born juveniles that cannot find sufficient natural food to build hibernation fat reserves are at acute welfare risk. However, inappropriate foods including bread and milk cause gastrointestinal problems. Feeding stations should be protected from cats and foxes to avoid competition and stress.

What You Can Do

Set up a hedgehog feeding station with appropriate food and water
Weigh juvenile hedgehogs found in autumn and contact rescues if under 600g
Never provide bread, milk, mealworms or dried fruit to hedgehogs
Create a hedgehog-safe feeding station protected from larger animals
Participate in the British Hedgehog Preservation Society monitoring schemes