Helping hedgehogs
Hedgehogs are the UK’s most beloved nocturnal mammal. However, hedgehogs face many challenges; Our Gardens Matter shows how you can best help these endearing creatures
By Our Gardens Matter
Hedgehogs are fascinating creatures native to the United Kingdom. Unfortunately, their population is declining rapidly, and they need our help. As nocturnal animals, hedgehogs should not be out during the day; if you see one during daylight hours, it is often a sign that the hedgehog is unwell. In such cases, please contact your nearest hedgehog rescue or veterinarian immediately for advice. Delaying help can be dangerous, as hedgehogs seen out during the day can deteriorate quickly.
Being nocturnal makes it challenging for us to spot hedgehogs, but it also means they need a safe and suitable environment in our gardens at night. Ensure that any ponds have a wildlife escape route; while hedgehogs are good swimmers, they can tire quickly and may drown if they cannot find a way to climb out.
Loss of habitat poses a significant threat to hedgehogs, so we must be mindful of their living environments by providing hedges, shrubs, grass, and other habitats to keep them happy and safe.
If you want to feed hedgehogs that visit your garden, please avoid giving them bread and milk, and never leave out mealworms. Instead, choose high-quality cat or small dog biscuits. Always provide fresh water in a shallow dish to prevent dehydration. Remember to put the food out only at dusk, as hedgehogs are nocturnal and most active during this time. Feeding hedgehogs can be simple as long as you stick to their dietary needs and ensure they have access to plenty of water.
Hedgehogs face significant threats from roads and traffic. These animals travel one or two miles each night, which makes it challenging for them to cross busy roads and highways safely. One effective way to reduce this risk is to slow down at night and be more vigilant when driving, especially in rural and green areas, to avoid hitting them.
Another common danger to hedgehogs is the use of pesticides in gardens. These chemicals can poison and kill these creatures. We can help protect hedgehogs by avoiding pesticides and opting for greener alternatives or natural substitutes.
Garden fences pose a significant problem for hedgehogs and can hinder their ability to find food. Since gardens are a natural habitat for these creatures, it is important to avoid disrupting their feeding patterns. When building a fence, it is essential to include a wildlife passageway, which allows hedgehogs to access other gardens.
In conclusion, hedgehogs in the UK face several challenges in their daily life. Reducing habitat loss, erecting hedgehog-friendly fences, slowing down while driving at night and avoiding the use of pesticides are only a few of the many ways we can help preserve this magnificent species. If we work together to make a difference, we can ensure hedgehogs thrive so future generations can enjoy them.
