Gardening expert Deb has shared tips for attracting hedgehogs to gardens, including scattering hedgehog biscuits as a treat. October is a good time to encourage the animals into outdoor spaces before winter, when they typically hibernate.
Hedgehog highways and shelter
In a TikTok video, Deb said the first step is to create a hedgehog highway. "Now, it may seem simple, but the first thing to do is make sure you have a hedgehog highway. Hedgehogs can roam up to one mile each night," she said.
She advised leaving a gap in a fence or under a garden gate, and providing shelter such as a log pile, compost heap, or purpose-built house in a shaded spot. "Provide food and water, not milk. Contrary to popular belief, milk is bad for hedgehogs. Do not leave milk out. Leave out fresh water," she added.
Food and garden features
Deb also suggested hedgehog biscuits could be purchased and scattered around the garden. She noted that hedgehogs favour gardens with leafy trees, and if these are absent, planting some could be worthwhile.
Hedgehogs are normally nocturnal, so a sighting in daylight might indicate a sick, injured, or dehydrated animal. The RSPCA states that hedgehogs can be attracted to gardens in many ways, often by providing the right food, water, and access routes while avoiding common hazards.
Practical steps for visitors
To attract hedgehogs, gardeners can open boundaries, provide natural shelter, food, and water. Creating a 13cm x 13cm square hole at the bottom of a fence or wall allows travel between gardens. Replacing solid wooden boundaries with native hedgerows like hawthorn, beech, or holly is also recommended.
Food options include tinned meaty cat or dog food, or specialised hedgehog dry food. Milk, bread, mealworms, peanuts, and fruit should never be given as they can make hedgehogs sick. Fresh water should be left in a shallow, heavy-bottomed dish, avoiding deep containers.
Natural shelter can be built by leaving a wild corner with long grass, fallen leaves, logs, or compost heaps. A wooden hedgehog box placed in a quiet, shady spot away from foot traffic provides additional refuge. Chemical slug pellets and pesticides should be avoided, as they poison hedgehogs or remove their food supply.
