Helping Hedgehogs Hibernate: Winter Survival Tips for Our Spiky Friends

As the cold weather sets in, hedgehogs begin their preparations for hibernation. These charming creatures, often spotted wandering our gardens or roadsides, face many challenges in the winter months. Unfortunately, hedgehog populations are in decline, with a sharp drop in numbers over recent decades. At Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital, we see first-hand the impact of a harsh winter on these vulnerable animals. In this post, we’ll explore how you can help hedgehogs survive the colder months and ensure they can hibernate safely.

Classed as 'Close to Extinction' on the ICUN Red Listed of Threatened Species.

Why Hibernation Matters for Hedgehogs

Hedgehogs, like many other wildlife species, rely on hibernation to survive the winter. As cold-blooded creatures, they can’t generate enough body heat to stay active through freezing temperatures. Hibernation is their way of conserving energy when food is scarce. During this period, hedgehogs lower their body temperature and enter a deep, sleep-like state. However, for hibernation to be successful, hedgehogs need to find a safe, warm place to rest. Without this, they risk premature awakening, which could be fatal if they don’t have enough fat reserves to last until spring.

Challenges Hedgehogs Face in Winter

Winter brings several threats to hedgehogs, especially in urban and suburban areas:

• Habitat loss: As more gardens are developed or left untidy, hedgehogs struggle to find safe, secluded spots to hibernate.

• Inadequate food: With fewer insects and worms available in the colder months, hedgehogs need to have built up fat reserves to last through hibernation.

• Dangerous human activity: Bonfires, lawnmowers, and traffic can harm hedgehogs that are trying to find food or shelter.

At Brent Lodge, we often receive hedgehogs in need of urgent care due to these challenges, particularly during the winter months.

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How You Can Help Hedgehogs Hibernate Safely

Here are some simple, but effective ways to support hedgehogs this winter:

1. Create a Hedgehog-Friendly Garden

Your garden can be a sanctuary for hedgehogs if you take the right steps. Make sure there are areas where hedgehogs can hide, such as piles of leaves, branches, or old logs. You can also create a hedgehog house, or simply leave an undisturbed patch of garden to give them a place to build their hibernation nest.

2. Leave Food Out (But Be Mindful)

If you come across a hedgehog that’s still active in winter, it might need extra food. Offer poultry based wet cat or dog food. Avoid leaving out foods that could be harmful, like sugary treats, dairy or bread, and never feed them dried mealworms as they lack the proper nutrients for hedgehogs.

3. Avoid Bonfires and Garden Clearing

Before lighting a bonfire, make sure to check for any hedgehogs that may have taken refuge in the pile of leaves or branches. Hedgehogs often nest in these spots for warmth and protection. Also, try to avoid clearing your garden too much in the autumn, as this could destroy potential hibernation sites. Be careful when using strimmers or lawn mowers as wild animals could be hiding in long grass. Always check first.

4. Make Your Fence Hedgehog-Friendly

Hedgehogs are natural wanderers, and they need access to a variety of habitats. If you have a fence, consider making small gaps at the bottom (roughly 13x13 cm) to allow hedgehogs to travel freely between gardens in search of food and shelter.

5. Contact Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital if You Find an Injured Hedgehog

If you come across a hedgehog that seems unwell or is out during the day (a sign they may be sick or struggling), contact Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital. We specialise in treating hedgehogs and other wildlife in need. Whether it’s a young hedgehog that didn’t get enough food before winter or one that’s been injured, we’re here to help.

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The Role of Brent Lodge in Hedgehog Conservation

At Brent Lodge, we understand the vital role hedgehogs play in our ecosystem. As a wildlife hospital, we provide care for hedgehogs throughout the year, including during their vulnerable hibernation periods. When hedgehogs arrive with injuries, dehydration, or malnourishment, our team works tirelessly to rehabilitate them and release them back into the wild. However, we can't do it alone.

By taking steps to make your own garden hedgehog-friendly, supporting local wildlife charities, and being vigilant during the colder months, we can all help ensure that these spiky little creatures survive and thrive through the winter.

Hedgehogs may be small, but their impact on our gardens and local ecosystems is immeasurable. As we prepare for the colder months, let’s remember how we can help these creatures that have long been part of our countryside and suburban environments. Together, we can give them the best chance for a safe and peaceful hibernation—and a better future.

If you'd like to support our work at Brent Lodge, please consider donating or volunteering with us. Every bit helps in the fight to protect these incredible creatures.

Stay safe, and let’s make winter a little brighter for our spiky friends! 🌿🐾

By Asha Park