Hedgehogs are nocturnal animals, meaning they prefer the dark and are most active during low-light periods or at night. They have poor eyesight and rely on their strong senses of hearing and smell to navigate and hunt in the dark.
Hedgehogs are nocturnal. They tend to sleep soundly during the day and stay awake for most of the night. They are sensitive to light and prefer a dim, quiet environment. Their primary method of protection is their ability to roll up into a ball and to erect their spines.
Like bats, hedgehogs avoid artificial lighting, keeping to less well-lit areas, and this could affect other behaviours.
Hedgehogs will not usually eat and sleep in the same place so it's best not to offer food inside the home (except perhaps to tempt them in initially). Once there is a resident, move food away from the box so as not to attract predators or rival hedgehogs to the site.
Leaving food and fresh water out in the garden each night will encourage visiting hedgehogs to return regularly. Try tinned meaty cat or dog food and crushed cat or dog biscuits. Place the food and water in shallow bowls so they can access them easily.
Hedgehogs come into gardens via holes in fences, gaps beneath gates and other small entrances – they don't need a big hole to travel through, around 13cm (the size of a CD) is enough. Hedgehogs in the garden are a good sign as it means your garden is open and accessible, and has the shelter and food they need.
Hedgehogs typically hibernate from autumn to spring (October - March), but this can vary depending on the temperature and food available.
As pets, hedgehogs can recognize and remember their owners' scent and voice, making them a loyal and affectionate companion. They can also quickly learn routines and habits, such as when it's time to eat or play.
Our observations show that nesting Mums often leave their young ones to rest elsewhere. That rest is often through the first and last part of the night but can also be in the day time. Routinely we expect to see hedgehogs come out in the evening around 9.30pm and go back to bed by 5am.
Motion activated sprinkler repellents provide an innovative way to deter unwanted animals, such as hedgehogs. They use a blast of water to safely and effectively scare away intruders and keep your garden free of pests.
Toxic foods for hedgehogs include chocolate, caffeine, dairy products, and certain fruits like grapes and citrus. It's essential to avoid these items to ensure your hedgehog's health and well-being. Always consult your veterinarian for specific dietary advice.
Hedgehogs mainly eat creepy crawlies
The majority of their diet is made up of invertebrates (or creepy crawlies). We know what they eat from scientific studies that have analysed hedgehog poo or looked in the stomachs of hedgehogs killed on roads.
If you hear a hedgehog scream you may well think the sound is coming from a very upset human baby. This noise is only made by hogs in severe distress and pain. The hog will be injured or maybe trapped somewhere. If you hear this noise you should definitely investigate as the hedgehog will need your help.
Just like any other pet, hedgehogs love treats. Waxworms are a favorite with these guys. You can also offer Hedgie some cooked chicken, turkey, or egg. Low fat/high protein wet cat or dog food is also fine, as is the occasional pinky mouse.
Making Friends With a Hedgehog
Signs of stress
Many hedgehogs are busy and want to try to explore but a stressed hedgehog will be much more persistent and not easily distracted. The stressed hedgehog may also twitch or shake its head nervously. It is almost as if the hedgehog is saying “Sensory overload. I can't take it anymore.”
Yes, hedgehogs often return to the same garden - especially if it provides a good food source, shelter, and safety.
Hedgehogs are known to be very communicative when it comes to their needs, and often make a low purring sound when they are happy or content.
Hedgehogs are little adventurers. They will climb out of a box, but they also like to burrow themselves, so if you give them a blanket or jacket, they are very likely to just hide underneath and stay in the box whilst you get them to a safe space.
The average hedgehog is content to do its own thing and may not show any outward sign that it cares about its owner's existence unless you have a treat in your hand. Despite their somewhat solitary nature, they can become very affectionate with their owners and will even enjoy snuggling on your lap.
A hedgehog will hear you before it sees you! Although their eyesight is poor, hedgehogs have great hearing and a well-developed sense of smell. They're also good runners, proficient climbers, and can even swim!
Hedgehogs can thrive living alone and do not need to be kept with other hedgehogs. Occasionally, two females may be housed together but it's typically recommended for hedgehogs to live alone.
Baby hedgehogs, called Hoglets, are born in the UK in June and July. A second litter may be born in September or October. There are usually 4 or 5 hoglets in a litter. Newborn hoglets are blind and tiny, weighing just 25 grams.
It's a good idea to put out food for hedgehogs all year round. In spring, it will be a boost for those emerging from hibernation, while in late summer and autumn it will help them build up those all-important fat reserves to survive the colder months.
Now we all know that most hedgehogs don't like rain, yet the dish of cat biscuits on the doorstep, open to the elements and within touching distance of those pesky humans, is always their first port of call.