Give hedgehogs a warm place to hibernate

Hedgehogs often spend the winter in a deep sleep called hibernation.

This helps them to conserve energy and survive the cold weather. During hibernation, hedgehogs may lose up to a third of their body weight.

You can help hedgehogs to hibernate successfully by providing them with a warm, dry place to sleep. Ideal places for hedgehog hibernation boxes are in sheltered spots amongst dense vegetation. They must be dry and protected from the elements.

You can build a hedgehog hibernation box using the following materials:

• A wooden box with a lid
• A layer of newspaper or straw
• A handful of dried leaves

To make the hibernation box, simply line the bottom of the box with the newspaper or straw. Then, add the dried leaves. Place the hibernation box in a sheltered spot in your garden and leave it there until spring.

In addition to providing a hibernation box, you can also help hedgehogs by leaving out food and water for them. Hedgehogs are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including insects, worms, snails, and berries.

By providing hedgehogs with a warm place to hibernate and by leaving out food and water for them, you can help them to survive the winter and thrive in your garden.

Here are some additional tips for providing shelter for hedgehogs:

• Make sure the hibernation box is big enough for the hedgehog to move around comfortably but small enough to retain heat.
• Place the hibernation box in a sheltered spot that is not likely to be disturbed by humans or animals.
• Do not disturb the hedgehog during hibernation.

By following these tips, you can help hedgehogs to hibernate successfully and survive the winter.