Living with Birds When do hedgehogs hibernate? Tweetapedia

What time of year do hedgehogs hibernate?

In the UK, hedgehogs typically start hibernating in late December, although this depends on the weather. Hibernation can begin earlier if temperatures drop a lot, and they may emerge later if the cold weather continues into the spring. During this time, they will use the fat stores they built up by eating as much as they can over the summer.

What do I do if I see a hedgehog out of hibernation during winter?

Don’t worry if you see a hedgehog out of hibernation in the winter months, they may move to a more suitable site. If you happen to see one curled up in an open space, it is recommended that you move it to a warm, damp-free area safe from any predators.

How do hedgehogs hibernate?

Hedgehogs hibernate by making themselves still, this allows their bodies to cool which results in their heart rate and body temperature dropping. Hedgehogs become mostly still due to the cold, if it becomes milder, they may venture out to have some food or water before returning to their nest to sleep. 

Why is hibernation important to hedgehog survival?

Hedgehogs hibernate for many reasons:

• When hibernating, hedgehogs reduce their heart rate and body temperature, allowing them to save their energy.
• Winter is too cold for hedgehogs, they survive winter by hibernating which keeps them warm.
• By sleeping through this period, hedgehogs avoid the risks associated with extreme weather and lack of food.

Where do hedgehogs hibernate?

Hedgehogs hibernate in many locations where they can stay safe, dry, and away from the cold.

 Hibernation sites for hedgehogs include:

• Leaf piles provide good insulation and protection from the cold.
• Compost heaps generate heat, making them a warm site for hedgehogs.
• Purpose-built hedgehog houses, like the Riverside Hedgehog house, or Hedgehog House by Wildlife World offer a safe and dry habitat designed for hibernation in gardens. 
• Hedgehogs may find their way into garden sheds, greenhouses, or other outbuildings where they can find a quiet corner to hibernate.

How can I help a hedgehog hibernating in my garden?

Provide a safe spot:

• Hedgehog houses that are placed in a quiet part of your garden. 
• Keep natural shelters such as piles of leaves, compost or logs. 
• keep children and pets away.
• place a small sign to remind others to be considerate of the hibernating hedgehog. 

A hedgehog-friendly garden:

• Providing hedgehog food.
• Provide water in a small dish.
• Adding more shelter and plants into your garden.

Check for safety hazards:

• Ponds need an escape route, like a ramp to prevent hedgehogs from drowning.
• Always check bonfires for hedgehogs before lighting them, as they might have chosen the pile as a hibernation site.
• Harmful chemicals in your garden, can harm hedgehogs and reduce their food supply.

What are the benefits of hedgehogs in your garden?:

Hedgehogs eat a range of pests such as snails and slugs, which can help the health of plants in your garden. 

What do I do if I accidentally disturb a hibernating hedgehog?

If you accidentally disturb a hibernating hedgehog, immediately cover it up with leaves for warmth, and leave out some food and water in case it wakes up, this will give it enough energy to relocate and build a new nest. 

Moving a hedgehog:

When moving a hedgehog, gloves must be worn to protect yourself from the hedgehog’s spikes. Approach calmly, and gently scoop the hedgehog from below using both hands to support its body. Once you have the hedgehog in your hands, hold it gently but securely. Stay quiet and calm to avoid the hedgehog getting frightened.