Hedgehogs hibernate from November to March and their welfare during this period depends on suitable nesting sites, adequate pre-hibernation body condition, and freedom from disturbance.
Hedgehog hibernation welfare is threatened by human disturbance of nesting sites, late-born juveniles too small to survive, and bonfire deaths. Supplementary feeding in autumn helps juveniles reach safe hibernation weight. Checking bonfires and log piles before lighting prevents agonising deaths from burning.