Build a hedgehog house

Your step-by-step guide to making a hedgehog hibernaculum.

Hedgehogs are one of the few mammals found in the UK that hibernate over winter. As autumn draws in, hedgehogs start to look for a place to call home for the colder months. They need to keep their temperature stable, but not necessarily warm, and although they hibernate until spring, they usually move to a new space at least once during this period. You can invite your neighbourhood hedgehogs into your garden this autumn by creating a hedgehog hibernaculum, out of old bits and bobs you can find around your house.

What you will need • A large storage tub with lid • A sturdy tube of diameter at least 13 cm and length at least 30cm • Hay and leaves • A drill, strong scissors or a Stanley knife • Optional - smaller tube

Start

Gather all your materials – go for a walk and forage some dry leaves to make your hibernaculum extra cosy.

Step 1

Choose where you want your tunnel entrance to connect and draw around the tube to mark where to cut.

Step 3 Step 4 Step 2

Wear goggles and be careful of sharp corners. Cut out the circle shape and sit the tube inside the hole – you can use a circular attachment on a drill, a Stanley knife or strong scissors.

Step 5

Smooth any sharp edges with tough black outdoor tape.

Drill some breathing holes near the top of the tub. You can also add an extra-large breathing tube. Half fill the tub with hay. Close the lid and place in the garden in a cosy spot. Cover the finished hedgehog home in branches and leaves.

If you make your own hedgehog hibernaculum, we’d love to see it, send your pictures to magazine@essexwt.org.uk.

PROVIDING EXPERT ADVICE FOR MORE THAN 250 YEARS

01206 764477 enquiries@ellisonssolicitors.com www.ellisonssolicitors.com

Colchester | Ipswich | Chelmsford | Bury St Edmunds | Tendring

Ellisons Solicitors is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority SRA Number 49336

Spotify, Apple

Podcasts and all other online podcast platforms.

I’ve heard it’ s im-peck -able

Discover nature on the go

The Wildlife Explorer podcast delves into the secret lives of some of our best-loved wildlife.

Natural Burial Ground

Burial & Ash Interments, Funerals, Services and Wakes Memorial Services and Celebrations of Life

Adaptable and completely personalised service from memorials to music. Reserving a plot in advance is also possible. Assurance of a caring and compassionate experience.

Coppice Lane, North End, Between Chelmsford & Great Dunmow, Essex, CM6 3PL

01245 806332 info@oldparkmeadow.co.uk @oldparkmeadow @OldParkMeadow