Hedgehogs frequently visit gardens in September as they actively forage to build up their fat reserves ahead of winter hibernation. Placing a shallow dish of fresh water outdoors can encourage them to keep visiting regularly and support their health.
How to attract hedgehogs to your garden
Tips recently shared on Instagram by an account called Plants and Gardening Ideas included steps to invite hedgehogs to an outdoor space. Speaking from the perspective of a hedgehog, the post read: "If you see me [a hedgehog] in your garden, please don’t be afraid. I’m not dangerous."
"I’m just a hedgehog — looking for food, water and a safe place to rest. Sadly, hedgehogs are disappearing from many places where they once thrived. A shallow bowl of fresh water can help me more than you know. If you’d like to feed me, offer a little suitable hedgehog food."
What should you place outdoors
Wild hedgehogs easily become dehydrated during hot or dry weather when natural ground moisture disappears. To care for them, offer clean drinking water all year round, not just during summer heatwaves. Heavy, shallow containers like ceramic plant pot saucers work best so small or young hedgehogs can reach the water easily.
A few clean stones or pebbles can be added inside the dish so bees and tiny insects can drink safely without drowning. The water should be changed daily and the bowl washed often to stop the spread of disease.
Feeding and safety advice
Hedgehogs should not be fed plain or raw kitchen cuts of meat, such as plain chicken or beef. Instead, they can eat high-quality, meat-based wet cat or dog food, ensuring it is low in salt.
The post also advised: "Please don’t give me milk. My body can’t digest it, and it can make me seriously ill. Avoid pesticides, poisons and traps. They harm the insects I rely on and can hurt me directly."
"I’m one of nature’s gardeners, helping to control many unwanted pests in your yard. If you spot me near a road, slow down and, if it’s safe, help me reach the other side. Please don’t hurt me. Please don’t ignore me. Every year there are fewer of us."
"But, with a little kindness, a little water and a safe corner in your garden, you can help give my family a future. Be kind. Help hedgehogs survive."
