How to Keep Baby Hedgehogs Safe in Your Garden
Hedgehogs are one of Britain's most beloved garden visitors, but their numbers have been declining in recent years. Baby hedgehogs, or hoglets, are particularly vulnerable. Here’s how you can help protect them and create a hedgehog-friendly garden.
1. Check Before You Trim
Before mowing your lawn or trimming hedges, always check for hedgehogs and hoglets. These small creatures often hide in long grass or under bushes, and accidental injuries from garden tools can be fatal.
2. Create Safe Shelter
Hedgehogs need safe places to nest and raise their young. Leave piles of leaves, logs, or even build a dedicated hedgehog house to provide shelter from predators and harsh weather.
3. Avoid Harmful Chemicals
Pesticides and slug pellets can poison hedgehogs. Opt for natural pest control methods to keep your garden thriving without harming wildlife.
4. Provide Food and Water
Hedgehogs love meat-based cat or dog food (never milk, as it upsets their stomach). A shallow dish of fresh water can also be a lifesaver, especially during dry spells.
5. Make Your Garden Accessible
Ensure hedgehogs can move freely between gardens by creating small gaps in fences or walls. This helps them forage for food and find mates.
6. Be Cautious with Bonfires
Always check bonfire piles before lighting them, as hedgehogs often use them as nesting spots. Build the bonfire on the same day you plan to light it to reduce the risk.
7. Support Hedgehog Charities
Organisations like the British Hedgehog Preservation Society work tirelessly to protect these creatures. Consider donating or volunteering to support their efforts.
By taking these simple steps, you can make a big difference in helping baby hedgehogs survive and thrive in your garden.
