Importance Score: 35 / 100 🔵
Helping Hedgehogs in Your Garden This Spring
Gardeners are being encouraged to provide fresh water in their gardens this April to aid hedgehogs that are awakening from winter hibernation. As temperatures rise, these spiky mammals emerge from their sleep and require immediate hydration and sustenance. Experts advise on simple steps to support these creatures in their post-hibernation recovery within garden environments.
Providing Water for Waking Hedgehogs
Wildlife experts are advising garden enthusiasts to be considerate of hedgehogs venturing into gardens during April. These animals typically rouse from their winter slumber from late March onwards as the weather becomes milder. Hedgehogs often choose sheltered, secluded spots such as compost heaps, leaf piles, beneath hedges, within tree hollows, or even sheds and garages to hibernate through the colder months. Upon spring’s arrival, they may experience disorientation and vulnerability in their surroundings, urgently needing nourishment and water – making garden assistance crucial.
Essential Steps to Support Hedgehogs
Beyond ensuring minimal disturbance to hibernating hedgehogs, providing a readily available water source this April is strongly recommended.
GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk notes, “Hedgehogs and dormice seek out warm, protected locations for hibernation, frequently finding sheds and summerhouses ideal for overwintering.”
“Hibernating species generally become fully active around March and April, although this is influenced by weather patterns.”
“Initially after hibernation, they are likely to be confused and unsure of their environment.”
“Supplying food and clean water will assist these animals in replenishing their fat reserves, and establishing exit routes will enable them to explore freely when they are ready.”
Guidance on Assisting Hedgehogs After Hibernation
They further explain, “If you have had a winter guest in your shed, outbuilding, or hibernating under compost or leaf debris, now is the opportune moment to consider how to assist them as they emerge from hibernation.”
“It is important to allow them to rest and avoid disruption. When they do awaken, be mindful that they might be unsteady and disoriented. Offering food and water is essential to help them restore lost fat and energy.”
Further Actions to Aid Hedgehogs
“Consider creating an exit pathway to allow them to move easily between gardens. If a hedgehog appears injured or unwell, contact a local wildlife rescue organisation for professional evaluation.”
“Allow hibernating hedgehogs and dormice to awaken naturally, and refrain from disturbing them. Hibernation is critical for their survival, and any disturbance can deplete vital energy reserves. Should you accidentally disturb one, cover it back up and leave the area.”
“Ensure a supply of food and water is accessible. Provide meaty cat or dog food in the form of dry biscuits, placed on a saucer in an easily reachable location. Also, position a saucer or shallow dish of fresh water nearby.”