Hedgehogs usually hibernate from October/November through to March/April. Research has shown that each individual is likely to move nesting sites at least once during this period and so can sometimes be seen out and about. During mild winters hedgehogs can remain active well into November and December.

about 190 times per minute

Studies on captive individuals suggest that hedgehogs lose one or two grams of body weight (0.2 to 0.3%) per day while in hibernation and thus, by the time the hedgehog is fully aroused, it needs to eat and drink as a matter of priority.

If you do accidentally disturb a hibernation nest, cover it back over with a thick layer of dry leaves and perhaps leave some dog food and water nearby, so if the hedgehog does wake up, he can easily find something to eat before he goes to find a new hibernation spot and rebuilds his nest.

You can help local hedgehogs through hibernation by putting food in an accessible place and providing a safe shelter for them. If you spot a hedgehog that looks too small to survive hibernation, contact the British Hedgehog Preservation Society for advice.

Can I move a hibernating hedgehog? No, by moving a hibernating hedgehog you are at risk of waking it, and therefore using up a large quantity of their fat store which they need to make it through the winter. So, please leave a hibernating hedgehog alone.

First check the hedgehog is not injured. If it is contact a rescue immediately otherwise it will need a new home. Use gardening gloves or a folded towel to pick the hog up with any remaining nest material if possible then pop it into a high-sided box and put it somewhere quiet and safe while you make a temporary house.

When a hedgehog hibernates, it balls up into a tight ball, so if it’s laid out flat then it’s most likely dead. Although, if you touch an aestivating hedgehog, it will usually stir and move slightly. So if they are laid out flat but they won’t move at all and they’re joints are stiff, I’m sorry to say they’ve died.

Always keep a thermometer near your hedgehogs cage to monitor the temperature daily. The temperature of the room should stay between 72 – 80 degrees Fahrenheit at all times. With 74 – 78 degrees is the ideal temperature for a pet hedgehog.