Baby hedgehogs, known as hoglets, are at their most vulnerable this time of year, and a simple change in garden habits could help them survive the colder months. The charity British Hedgehogs says autumn is when hedgehogs begin to give birth, and keeping gardens welcoming is crucial.
Why autumn feeding matters
Hedgehogs can give birth to hoglets late in the year, and these youngsters may not have enough time to build up sufficient fat reserves to survive hibernation. The charity said: "The absolute minimum weight to see them through the winter is 450gms (1lb) and any hedgehog below this weight is likely to have problems when it hibernates."
Autumn juveniles that appear well and are only out after dark will benefit from additional feeding in the garden throughout early autumn. The charity advises: "They should normally be rescued at weights less than 450g in late October – February (depending on weather, frequency at feeding stations, etc)."
What to do if you find a hoglet in need
British Hedgehogs recommends seeking advice from an independent hedgehog rehabilitation centre, which can give the most appropriate advice at the time. Once in care, rehabilitators prefer to get autumn juveniles up to 600gms (1lb 6oz) or more before considering release, because they will lose weight initially upon re-introduction to the wild.
For first aid, the charity says: "If you find an autumn juvenile in need of help, for First Aid, the hedgehog should be given extra warmth, either a warm hot water bottle wrapped in towelling or blanket or placed on a heated pad with room to get away from the heat should it get too warm. It should be placed in a box lined with torn newspaper or clean towelling or fleece for bedding."
If they cannot be brought indoors immediately, outbuildings are acceptable if heated and flies cannot get to the hedgehog, but the box should not be placed directly onto a metal grid, wire floor, or straight onto concrete, as the cold will permeate through. The charity advises seeking advice as soon as possible and says: "As advised, you may offer meaty hedgehog food, meaty cat or dog food or cat biscuits and fresh water. Never offer milk as this can upset their tummies."
British Hedgehogs stresses that caring for hedgehog casualties is a specialised job and the animals should be passed onto an experienced rehabilitator as soon as possible. The charity advises calling BHPS on 01584 890801 for details of the nearest independent rescue.
