Hedgehog supplementary feeding season

• Posted on 1 March 2023
• By DRD Knaagdierwinkel
• 0

Wild hedgehogs are facing increasing difficulties in finding sufficient food. This is due to several factors, including the disappearance of insects, persistent drought, and changes in our gardens. Often, we no longer have lawns and vegetation that attract insects and provide shelter for hedgehogs.

Our garden was once a paradise for hedgehogs

Gardens used to be much greener than they are now. Everywhere, there were plants, bushes, and trees, and in many cases, you would even find a small lawn. However, things have changed significantly, and gardens have often transformed from green havens for hedgehogs into uninhabitable stone expanses, at least from a hedgehog's perspective! Fortunately, awareness of the importance of green gardens is growing. Trees not only provide shelter for birds but also their leaves, which fall in the autumn, are crucial as nesting material for hedgehogs. Beneath those leaves, they also find an abundance of insects and worms to feast on.

Order everything for the Hedgehogs here!

Shrubs and hedges offer shelter to various garden creatures, including hedgehogs. Under this cover, animals often find food in the form of insects and worms. Therefore, a green garden is invaluable for hedgehogs and other garden animals.

If you want to turn your garden into a true hedgehog haven, consider creating a special insect garden! Native flowers and plants are highly suitable for this purpose. Let nature take its course, and avoid using insecticides or slug pellets. Hedgehogs will naturally keep the slug population in check!

Garden animals belong to all of us!

We believe that garden animals, including hedgehogs, belong to everyone. This is our motto when it comes to caring for these adorable garden residents.

The hedgehog feeding season begins in March!

When it comes to feeding hedgehogs, we believe that the food we use should align with the hedgehog's natural dietary needs. They are true carnivores (meat-eaters). Hedgehogs cannot tolerate regular milk and should absolutely not be given any, not even cat milk. Only special Hedgehog and rodent milk is suitable for them.

Starting to feed hedgehogs

Early Spring (March/April): The hedgehog feeding season typically begins in March when they awaken from their hibernation. During this period, hedgehogs may be hungry and actively seeking food.

Late Spring (May/June): Feeding can continue into late spring, especially if there is a shortage of natural food sources like insects and worms. This is also the season when hedgehogs may have offspring, so extra food is welcome for both adult hedgehogs and their young.

Continuing to feed

Summer (July/August): During the summer, hedgehogs often find enough food on their own, such as insects and fruits. Feeding can be reduced, but you can continue if you notice a shortage of natural food.

Ending hedgehog feeding:

Autumn (September/October): In the autumn, hedgehogs begin preparing for hibernation. At this time, you should gradually reduce feeding since hedgehogs become less active and prepare to rest. It's essential not to overburden their digestive systems before they hibernate.

Late Autumn (November/December): As temperatures drop, and hedgehogs enter hibernation, you should stop feeding them. They will retreat to their nests and enter a state of hibernation in which they do not require food.

During the mentioned period, any help with feeding hedgehogs is greatly appreciated. Let's work together to care for these special animals in our gardens!

Hedgehog-Friendly Tips for Your Garden:

Hedgehog Houses and Shelters: Consider placing hedgehog houses or shelters in your garden. This provides hedgehogs with a safe place to nest and hide, especially during winter months and when raising their young.

Avoid Garden Poisoning: Be cautious with chemicals like pesticides and herbicides. These substances can be harmful to hedgehogs and other animals. Instead, use natural methods to control pests.

Provide Water Sources: Ensure there's a shallow water source in your garden, such as a shallow dish. Hedgehogs also need water, especially during dry periods.

Hedgehog-Friendly Planting: Choose plants that attract insects, such as butterflies and bees. These serve as food for hedgehogs. Flowering shrubs and plants can also attract hedgehogs.

Top-Up Food: Offer hedgehogs food like specialized hedgehog food, wet cat food, or dog kibble. Place this food in a shallow dish and ensure it stays fresh.

Don't Disturb: Leave hedgehogs undisturbed when you encounter them in your garden. They are often active at night and may sleep during the day. If you find young hedgehogs, keep in mind that mother hedgehogs are usually nearby and will return to care for their offspring.

Hedgehog-Friendly Fencing: Ensure your garden is fenced, but with an opening or hedgehog-friendly gate. This makes it easier for hedgehogs to enter and exit your garden.

Leaving Leaves: In autumn, consider leaving fallen leaves on your lawn rather than clearing them away. Hedgehogs use leaves as shelter and often find insects to eat under them.

Compost Pile: If you have a compost heap, make sure it's accessible to hedgehogs. They may forage for food in compost, but avoid packing it too tightly.

Fences with Gaps: If your garden is fenced, consider installing small tunnels or gaps under the fence to allow hedgehogs access to neighboring gardens. This enables them to explore larger habitats.

Safe Mushrooms: If you grow mushrooms in your garden, ensure they are not toxic to hedgehogs. Some mushrooms can be dangerous if ingested.

Reduce Plastic: Clear plastic waste from your garden. Plastic bags, nets, and other items can be hazardous to hedgehogs, as they may become entangled.

Undisturbed Nesting: If you suspect there is a hedgehog nest in your garden, try to remain calm and avoid disturbing the nesting site.