Gardeners looking to attract hedgehogs this winter have been given simple advice by an expert: leave a pile of twigs and sticks in a quiet corner. David Fryer, Head of Technical at Mr Fothergill’s, said that an 'untidy' garden can be a lifeline for the creatures during the colder months.
According to Fryer, small heaps of twigs and branches make perfect hiding spots for hedgehogs and shrews, while an upturned terracotta pot can provide shelter for frogs and toads. He emphasised that these micro-habitats not only protect wildlife but also bring natural pest controllers into the garden.
To create a suitable habitat, choose a shady, undisturbed area and stack larger logs at the base to create air gaps. Fill the gaps with smaller sticks, bark and dry leaves, and leave an opening at the bottom for hedgehogs to enter. The pile should be left to rot naturally, with new material added each year as the old decays.
Hedgehogs are attracted to twig and leaf heaps because they offer essential shelter and are rich in natural food sources such as beetles and woodlice. The damp, dark environment of a decomposing pile attracts invertebrates, which form the hedgehog's primary diet. Additionally, leaving a dish of water outside can help keep them hydrated during winter.
