Brora wildlife centre helps rescue spiky friend
Making Space for Nature by Jenny Grant
Hedgehogs, beloved by many in the UK, are increasingly in need of our help. As changes in land use fragment their habitats, our gardens can become vital spaces where hedgehogs can thrive.
These small, nocturnal creatures bring ecological balance by consuming pests such as slugs and caterpillars. With just a few thoughtful changes, you can make your garden a welcoming refuge for these shy but valuable visitors.
There has been notable success in rehoming hedgehogs, with efforts led by local groups such as the Ullapool Sea Savers. One such hedgehog, Logan, was rehomed by the sea savers from the Highland Wildlife Rescue hospital in Brora and has been settling into his new environment.
A wildlife camera captured Logan filling his new home with leaves, and he has been observed on camera several times since. The High Life Highland ranger-led Nature Club has contributed by placing numerous hedgehog houses throughout the area, and through this community effort, local hedgehog populations are beginning to thrive.
One of the most crucial elements for a hedgehog-friendly garden is access. Hedgehogs need to roam freely, often travelling surprisingly long distances every night in search of food. If your garden is enclosed by fences, creating small gaps of about 13 cm by 13 cm in your boundary will allow hedgehogs to move between gardens without obstruction.
You can even work with neighbours to form a “hedgehog highway”, increasing their chances of finding food and shelter.
Hedgehogs love to forage in gardens that are pesticide-free. Slugs, beetles, and earthworms are all part of a healthy hedgehog diet, and using chemical pesticides or slug pellets can harm them directly or indirectly by depleting their food supply.
Organic gardening practices, such as encouraging natural predators including hedgehogs and frogs, or using barriers to deter pests, are much safer for wildlife.
Consider providing water as well – fresh water in a shallow dish is always appreciated, especially during the warmer months. However, avoid leaving out milk, as this can cause stomach issues for hedgehogs. If you want to offer food, dry cat or dog food, or specialist hedgehog food, is a good choice.
Hedgehogs hibernate from November to March, depending on the temperature. During this period, they seek out safe, sheltered spots that provide warmth and protection from predators. In your garden, you can create suitable hibernation habitats by leaving areas of the garden a bit wild. Leaf piles, log piles, and dense undergrowth provide excellent natural shelters where hedgehogs can build their nests.
If you're feeling more proactive, you can also buy or build a hedgehog house. These can be placed in a quiet, undisturbed corner of the garden, out of direct sunlight and wind. The entrance should be small enough to prevent larger animals from entering but large enough for a hedgehog to get in and out comfortably.
Make sure to add dry leaves, straw, or shredded paper inside, providing bedding material for the hedgehog to arrange.
While creating a hedgehog-friendly space, it’s equally important to be aware of garden hazards. Hedgehogs can become trapped in uncovered drains, or steep-sided features like lined ditches and ponds, so consider adding ramps or escape routes if these are present in your garden.
Garden netting should be kept off the ground to prevent hedgehogs from becoming entangled, and bonfire piles should always be checked carefully before lighting, as these can be inviting nest spots for hedgehogs.
In the Highlands, with our often cold and hostile winter climate, hedgehogs may need extra help to stay safe and warm. By offering them suitable food, water, shelter, and safe passage through our gardens, we can all play a role in helping these charming creatures thrive.
• Making Space for Nature is a regular wildlife column with tips about how we can act to help wildlife in our communities. This month’s wildlife columnist is Jenny Grant, the High Life Highland countryside ranger for Wester Ross.
