Hedgehogs are a brilliant addition to any garden, providing natural pest control by feeding on insects, caterpillars and beetles. With autumn now well underway, Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress, is sharing advice on how gardeners can look out for hedgehogs this October by making their gardens more welcoming.
Hedgehog populations in rural areas have fallen by between a third and three-quarters nationally over the last two decades, and creating wildlife-friendly gardens is one way to support hedgehog conservation. Gardens can provide hedgehogs with vital sources of food, water and shelter, and leaving small gaps in fences and gates allows them to move safely and freely between different spaces.
Providing food and water
Hedgehogs will be looking to build up their fat reserves ahead of hibernation, so leaving out food is one of the easiest ways to tempt them into your garden. They are particularly fond of insects such as beetles, earthworms and snails. You can also leave out meat-based cat food, specialist hedgehog food or plain dry cat biscuits.
As hedgehogs are mostly active after dark, put the food out during the evenings. Place a shallow dish of clean water somewhere quiet and sheltered, and make sure to change the water every day.
Shelter and access
Hedgehogs require a peaceful, sheltered spot to rest during the day before they eventually hibernate. Think about leaving one corner of your garden in a natural, untidy state with heaps of leaves, logs and branches where hedgehogs can hide and take shelter. You can also purchase or construct a hedgehog house to provide them with a dedicated space.
These creatures can cover a surprisingly large distance overnight while searching for food and water. Leaving a small opening at the bottom of gates and fences allows hedgehogs to roam freely between gardens without venturing close to busy roads or hazardous areas. A gap of 13cm by 13cm is generally considered the ideal size.
Avoiding harmful chemicals
If you're actively looking to attract hedgehogs into your garden, cut down on the use of pesticides and other chemicals. These can directly harm hedgehogs and also wipe out the insects they depend upon for their food.
