Not only are hedgehogs totally cute, but they devour snails, slugs and caterpillars, making them a gardener’s best friend. But they need a helping hand to get through their winter hibernation, so here’s what you can do in your own garden.
Young hedgehogs will be out and about right now, building up body fat for their winter hibernation which starts around October time, and looking for somewhere to snuggle up.
-Their usual diet of insects will start to grow scarce as the weather gets colder, so why not leave out some dog or cat food for them (avoid fish flavours) and some water.
-Slug pellets and pesticides are dangerous to hedgehogs so avoid them altogether or buy organic, animal safe varieties. That will also ensure that no longer dogs or cats get poisoned either.
-Cover over your pond with chicken wire to prevent them falling in.
-If you have a garden wall or fence, take a brick out from the bottom or cut a 15cm hole, as this allows the hedgehog to come and go from the garden.
-They love to nest in overgrown vegetation, so why not leave an area of your garden to grow wild. If you absolutely have to trim an overgrown area, do a thorough check before running the mower over it.
-It is easy to build a secure shelter for hedgehogs to nest in. Just create a simple tepee of logs and cover with a plastic sheet to keep the rain out, leaving a clear entrance. Inside put some dry grass and leaves as bedding, and try to avoid looking inside. Between May and September, a mother may be using it to rear her young and if disturbed she may abandon them.
Hedgehog SOS
If you see a hedgehog out in the open during the day and it’s not moving or lethargic, then it could be sick or injured.
Place it in a cardboard box in keep in a warm dark place, and offer it some water and cat or dog food. Then contact the RSPCA, a Wildlife Hospital or your local vet for advice.
Have you seen any hedgehogs in your garden? Add your tips on how to attract them or build a good shelter, in the comments section below.
(pic c/o © Janet Thorpe – Fotolia.com)
Related posts:
Related posts:
Hi and welcome. I'm a freelance travel and lifestyle copywriter and editor, with a passion for the great outdoors. This is my personal blog all about getting out in the fresh air and reconnecting with our green spaces and countryside.
