What to do when hedgehogs come out of hibernation.
Depending on the temperature, hedgehogs usually begin hibernating in November when the weather turns cold. They awaken from hibernation in spring, typically between March and April. When hedgehogs come out of hibernation, make sure your garden has plenty of space for them to roam.
Hedgehog highways
Wildlife experts encourage gardeners to look out for hedgehogs by creating hedgehog highways. These are 5-inch gaps in fences that allow hedgehogs to move freely between gardens and prevent them from becoming accidentally trapped.
Hedgehogs naturally roam through many gardens while foraging for food, finding mates, and seeking shelter. Since 2007, the number of wild hedgehogs in the UK has halved, with fewer than a million though to remain.
Do your part to help, create space and safe pathways for hedgehogs in your garden.
For more information about protecting hedgehogs, visit On the Wight.