Urban Wildlife - Hedgehog

What to look for

Hedgehogs can grow up to 30cm long and weigh up to 1900g.  Their body is sturdy with short legs and the head
is pointed with small eyes and rounded ears. They have short, sharp, stiff spines over the back and sides and the underside is covered with dense yellow-brown fur.

When and Where to see

Hedgehogs are common to fields, hedgerows, woods and gardens.  They are mainly active at dusk and at night.  Hedgehogs are normally only seen from May until October, as they hibernate during winter because there is too little food available during that time. They hide under logs and piles of leaves during hibernation.
Hedgehogs are normally solitary, but females with
young may be seen in summer. 
Hedgehogs can run surprisingly quickly if frightened. They will also roll up into a ball when there is danger; this presents the sharp spines to any attacking animal and is normally a very good defence.

Did you know?

• Hedgehogs mainly eat beetles, caterpillars, and earthworms.
• Many people put out a saucer of bread
  and milk for them, but this can be harmful as their stomach cannot digest bread, and cow’s milk is a breeding ground for germs and can cause stomach upsets.
• A better choice for hedgehogs is tinned dog or cat food (not fish-based), minced meat, chopped liver, or scrambled egg.  Dog biscuits, bran and
  peanuts can be used to supplement the diet and to provide roughage, but sweet foods such as
  chocolate and fruit should be avoided as they are bad for their teeth. It is very important to ensure that a supply of fresh water is always available.
• The mating season for hedgehogs is from April until August, with up to 2 litters a year. The female makes a nest of grass, well hidden in the undergrowth and has two to four hoglets that are born naked, with closed eyes. She suckles them and they grow quickly. They leave the nest after about three weeks and become independent.
• The hedgehog has about 16,000 prickles on its back.  These normally lie flat, but are raised by special muscles in times of danger.  The head and legs are also tucked in, making the animal into a spiky ball, protecting it against most predators.  Sadly, it is this same response which also results in so many hedgehogs being killed on our roads.

Links & Downloads

• hedgehog factsheet