As November's chill sets in across the UK, our spiky garden visitors begin their long winter sleep, but they need our help to survive the colder months. Hedgehogs typically start hibernating in November, though they can remain active until December during milder weather conditions.
Essential Winter Support for Hedgehogs
According to experts from Wear Referrals Veterinary Specialist, there's one remarkably simple way to support these charming creatures: providing plain cat food alongside fresh water in your garden. This straightforward act can make a crucial difference to their survival prospects.
Specialists emphasise that while hedgehogs hibernate, they occasionally wake to relocate nests or search for nourishment. During these periods, having access to appropriate food helps them rebuild the fat reserves necessary to survive until spring. Even during hibernation, hedgehogs continue to burn energy and need to eat when active.
What to Provide and What to Avoid
The veterinary experts recommend several protective measures for supporting hedgehog populations. Creating a 'hedgehog highway' by making small openings in garden fencing allows safe passage between gardens. More importantly, they advise leaving out a dish of water for drinking and high-quality, meaty cat food that's preferably grain-free.
Surprisingly, hedgehogs particularly enjoy cat food, which can be beneficial to their diet when it's the right type. You can offer either wet or dry varieties, but crucially, always provide fresh water alongside it.
Equally important is knowing what to avoid. Never offer bread or milk to hedgehogs, as these can cause serious illness. Mealworms should also be avoided as they're not suitable for their dietary needs.
When to Intervene and When to Step Back
If you encounter a hedgehog during daylight hours that appears weak, lethargic or infested with fleas, immediate action is required. Similarly, during winter months, hedgehogs weighing less than 450g may need assistance as they're unlikely to survive hibernation at this size.
In such cases, place the animal in a box with a wrapped hot water bottle and contact your nearest wildlife rescue centre for professional advice. Keep the hedgehog comfortable until experts can assess the situation.
However, if hedgehogs appear content and healthy, it's best to leave them undisturbed and avoid interfering with their nests. Gardeners should also cease using chemicals if they notice hedgehogs visiting, as these products can cause harm.
By taking these simple steps, particularly providing that crucial bowl of water and appropriate cat food, you'll be playing a vital role in supporting these beloved British creatures through the challenging winter season.
