Hedgehog House
Hedgehog houses are a perfect way to support these charming garden visitors, providing them with a safe space to nest, hibernate, and escape predators. Read more here.
Creating a hedgehog-friendly garden not only benefits hedgehogs but also helps maintain a balanced ecosystem in your outdoor space. Learn how to choose, place, and maintain the ideal hedgehog house.
Why provide a hedgehog house?
- Safe shelter: Hedgehog houses offer protection from predators like foxes and badgers, as well as from harsh weather conditions.
- Support declining populations: Hedgehog numbers are in decline due to habitat loss. By providing a home, you can help reverse this trend.
- Natural pest control: Hedgehogs are excellent at controlling pests, feeding on slugs, snails, and insects, which can benefit your garden.
What to consider when choosing a hedgehog house
- Material: Look for durable materials like FSC-certified wood or other weatherproof material to ensure longevity and protection from the elements.
- Design features: Choose a house with a small entrance tunnel to keep predators out and a spacious interior for nesting and hibernation.
- Ventilation and drainage: Ensure proper airflow and drainage to prevent moisture buildup inside the house.
Types of hedgehog houses
- Wooden hedgehog houses: Natural and eco-friendly options, often with insulated walls for temperature regulation.
- Plastic or recycled material houses: Lightweight and weather-resistant, easy to clean and maintain.
- Decorative hedgehog houses: Blends seamlessly into your garden while providing practical shelter.
Where and how to place a hedgehog house
- Location: Place the house in a quiet, shaded area, away from busy paths or direct sunlight. Hedges or dense shrubs provide ideal cover.
- Facing direction: Position the entrance away from prevailing winds and avoid placing it near waterlogged areas.
- Preparation: Add dry leaves or hay inside the house to encourage hedgehogs to settle in.
When to use a hedgehog house?
- Autumn and winter: Hedgehogs use the house for hibernation during the colder months.
- Spring and summer: Female hedgehogs may use it as a safe space to rear their young.
How to maintain a hedgehog house?
- Annual cleaning: Clean the house in late March or early April after hibernation to avoid disturbing any occupants.
- Use natural cleaners: Avoid chemical cleaners; use a mild soap or simply rinse with warm water.
- Check for repairs: Inspect for damage and ensure the house remains sturdy and weatherproof.
Additional tips for supporting hedgehogs
- Create a hedgehog-friendly garden: Leave gaps in fences, avoid using slug pellets, and plant native shrubs for shelter.
- Provide water: Leave out a shallow dish of water, especially during hot weather.
- Offer supplementary food: Provide specially formulated hedgehog food or meaty cat food to supplement their diet.
Ready to create a safe haven for hedgehogs? Help these delightful creatures thrive in your garden!