How to Help Hedgehogs During All Four Seasons
Hedgehogs are adorable and fascinating creatures that can be found in many parts of the world. Unfortunately, hedgehogs are in decline due to habitat loss, road accidents, and other human activities. As animal lovers, it is our responsibility to help hedgehogs and ensure that they are protected. In this blog post, we will discuss how to help hedgehogs during all four seasons. If you like to also read other facts about animal welfare, check out our blog Malis Planet.
Did you know?
Hedgehogs are small mammals that can be found in parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa, and have been introduced to other parts of the world like New Zealand[1]. Here are some statistics on hedgehogs:
There are 17 species of hedgehogs in five genera[1].
The head and body of adult hedgehogs range from 5 to 12 inches (13 to 30 centimetres) long and weigh between 14 to 39 ounces[2][3].
The common Western European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) can grow up to 1,100 grams[4].
Hedgehogs are carnivores and eat insects, snails, and other small animals[2][3].
In the UK, hedgehogs have declined by 30% in urban areas and 50% in rural areas since 2000[5].
Spring
Spring is the time when hedgehogs come out of hibernation. During this time, they are hungry and need to find food. Here's how you can help hedgehogs in the spring:
Provide food: Leave out a dish of water and some cat or dog food for hedgehogs to eat. Avoid giving them milk or bread, as this can upset their stomachs.
Create a safe space: Hedgehogs need a safe place to rest during the day. You can create a safe space by building a hedgehog house or providing a pile of leaves for them to hide in.
Summer
Summer is the breeding season for hedgehogs. During this time, they are looking for a mate and may travel long distances to find one. Here's how you can help hedgehogs in the summer:
Provide water: Leave out a dish of water for the hedgehogs to drink from. Make sure to change the water regularly to keep it fresh.
Avoid using pesticides: Pesticides can be harmful to hedgehogs and other wildlife. Avoid using them in your garden or on your lawn.
Fall
Fall is the time when hedgehogs are preparing for hibernation. During this time, they need to build up their fat reserves. Here's how you can help hedgehogs in the fall:
Provide food: Leave out a dish of water and some cat or dog food for hedgehogs to eat. They need to build up their fat reserves for hibernation.
Create a safe space: Hedgehogs need a safe place to hibernate during the winter. You can create a safe space by building a hedgehog house or providing a pile of leaves for them to hide in.
Winter
Winter is the time when hedgehogs are in hibernation. During this time, they need a safe and warm place to rest. Here's how you can help hedgehogs in the winter:
Provide a safe space: Hedgehogs need a safe place to hibernate during the winter. You can create a safe space by building a hedgehog house or providing a pile of leaves for them to hide in.
Avoid disturbing them: If you come across a hedgehog during hibernation, avoid disturbing them. They need to conserve their energy during this time.
Conclusion
Hedgehogs are fascinating creatures that need our help and protection. By providing food, water, and a safe space for hedgehogs, we can ensure that they are protected during all four seasons. Whether it's building a hedgehog house or leaving out a dish of water, there are many ways to help hedgehogs and make a difference in their lives. Involve your children in this process.
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