Hedgehog numbers are in decline, these welcome visitors to our gardens are in need of our help. Hedgehogs eat slugs and numerous other insects which feast on our garden plants. Here are some things you can do to help and somethings you should avoid doing if you want to keep the Hedgehogs in your garden happy and healthy.

Hedgehogs create hibernation nests in winter called ‘hibernacula’. Help hedgehogs by providing nesting spots under your sheds, in compost heaps, under leaf piles or logs.
Install a hedgehog house encouraging nesting in your garden
Hedgehogs are known to travel around 1 mile every night. A wildlife corridor can be created between gardens by making holes in fencing between gardens
Leave water out for hedgehogs to have a drink
Put out dog food or meaty cat food around dusk
Keep an eye out for hedgehogs limping or who appear injured
In autumn watch for underweight hedgehogs that may struggle through the winter

DON’T

Don’t pick up hedgehogs
Don’t put out bread and milk as they are not suitable as food for hedgehogs
Don’t use slug pellet or other chemicals in the garden as they may poison hedgehogs
Don’t light bonfire until checking to see if hedgehogs have moved in preparation for winter
Don’t leave dustbin bags lying around as hedgehogs may nest in them and then be disposed of accidentally

For more information or if you find a hedgehog that may need attention, organisations such as Tiggywinkles, who rescue and rehabilitate all species of British wildlife, offer advice and help.

www.sttiggywinkles.org.uk

24 HOUR HELPLINE 01844 292292

Hedgehog Photo credit - Jillian Macready