Hedgehog Out in the Day: When to Watch and When to Help
A UK hedgehog seen in daylight may need urgent help, but a healthy mother can be briefly active. Check the warning signs, know when to watch, and follow BHPS first aid.
4 min read
Explore the journal
Wild Hedgehogs
Small visitors. A world to discover.
Get to know the hedgehogs that share our gardens, from feeding and nesting to hibernation and seasonal safety. Explore advice for thoughtful wildlife-friendly gardening.
Articles in Wild Hedgehogs
View all articles
Build the GroundFeeders Hedgehog House: Measured Wooden Plan
Build our wooden hedgehog house from a measured cut list and illustrated plan. Download the free six-page PDF, then fit the internal passage and removable roof.
5 min read
Seasonal wildlife guide
UK · Autumn
Make room for hedgehogs this Bonfire Night
Build on the day. Move stored materials to a clear spot just before burning. Check carefully for wildlife before lighting.
Read the hedgehog safety guide Browse all seasonal guides →
Seasonal wildlife guide
UK · Autumn and winter
Build a hedgehog house for winter
Give hedgehogs another possible winter nest site. Put a house in a quiet, sheltered spot, leave dry leaves nearby and avoid disturbing it if occupied.
Read the hedgehog-house guide Browse all seasonal guides →
Guide 1 of 2
Is This Hedgehog Poo? Droppings, Tracks and Garden Signs
Hedgehog droppings are usually dark, firm and 15–50 mm long, often with insect fragments. Compare verified photos, then check footprints or use a camera or tracking tunnel to confirm a UK garden visit.
4 min read
How to Build a Hedgehog House: Two UK Garden Options
Make a hedgehog house from a ventilated box or untreated wood. Follow the key entrance, placement and cleaning checks for a UK garden.
5 min read
What Does a Hedgehog Nest Look Like? UK Guide
A hedgehog nest often resembles a compact mound of dry leaves and grass beneath dense cover. Learn how summer, breeding and hibernation nests differ.
6 min read
Will Rats Live in a Hedgehog House? What to Do
Rats can investigate or shelter in a hedgehog house, especially when food is nearby. Learn how to separate shelter from feeding, monitor safely and reduce attractants.
6 min read
When Do Hedgehogs Have Babies? A UK Guide
UK hedgehogs usually give birth in June and July, although hoglets may arrive from spring into autumn. Learn the breeding timeline and when a young hedgehog needs help.
6 min read
How to feed hedgehogs without encouraging rats
You cannot make hedgehog food rat-proof, but small portions, prompt clearing and fewer food sources can reduce the risk. Here is what to do if rats start visiting.
6 min read
What do wild hedgehogs eat? Natural diet and safe feeding
Discover what wild European hedgehogs eat, which foods to offer garden visitors, what to avoid and how to keep feeding areas clean.
5 min read
When do hedgehogs hibernate? Timing and winter care
UK hedgehogs usually hibernate between autumn and spring, but the dates vary. Learn what winter activity means, how to protect nests and when to seek help.
6 min read
How to attract hedgehogs to your garden safely
Give visiting hedgehogs a safe way in, natural food and shelter, and clean water. Here is where to start, what to avoid and how to spot a hedgehog that needs help.
7 min read
Hedgehog Safety Guide
Protect hedgehogs around Bonfire Night: how to check a wood pile, what to do if you find a hedgehog, and when to call for help.
5 min read
Showing 12–12 of 12 articles