4 minute read
Hedgehogs
WILDLIFE - By Mica Bale
Help The Hedgehogs
Think of all the delightful creatures that share our gardens with us, from tiny birds that enchant us with their song at dawn and dusk to the sometimes pesky insects that wreak havoc on our prize pruning’s, arguably one of the cutest and most important animals to make their way into backyards and outdoor spaces are hedgehogs. Characteristic with their countless quills and endlessly happy little faces, hedgehogs play a much more important role than being mere ornaments. In fact, more than ever, hedgehogs need help.
According to recent studies hedgehog numbers have plummeted in the past twenty-five years. Although it may be difficult to make grand gestures such as opening a complete hedgehog hotel or sanctuary, if everyone in the local area makes just a little effort to help these smiley little creatures then the whole population can be aided.
Animals will always need food, water, shelter and to live in a clean environment, free from harmful pesticides and that is especially true in the colder months of our long autumns and winters. Actually, if you are keen to be a wildlife supporter, it can never be too early to start providing safe spaces and extra food supplies. Why not have a go and enjoy having a hedgehog housewarming in your garden and get the little ones involved too?
Hedgehog House - A great way to encourage hedgehogs into the garden or to make the ones already there feel welcome is to create an ideal den. If you’re feeling more adventurous, there are plenty of ways to create a safe home for hedgehogs to adopt. Generally speaking, the entrance to the hedgehog home should only be wide enough for the hedgehog itself to fit through.
Make A Clean Environment - Nobody likes living with pollution and the same is true of hedgehogs. Sprays, pellets and other chemicalbased products created to rid our gardens of unwanted insects have a far wider impact than just on the intended targets. Hedgehogs eat slugs and insects, and it is all too easy for them to ingest the poisons that are designed to keep creepy crawlies at bay. Research methods that won’t harm other animals. In fact, encouraging animals like hedgehogs into your garden can actually work as a natural solution for all those hungry nibblers! It may be possible to consider creating hedgehog highways as well so that their natural pathways are not disturbed by the construction of a fence.
Use Natural Resources - Ready to put the garden to bed for the winter? Picking up twigs and leaves doesn’t have to be a boring job. With a little help from the kids, collect small handfuls of cuttings and shredded twigs from trees or hedgerows and place them in a secure area of the garden to encourage hedgehogs to feel at home in your garden.
Food Glorious Food - Nobody wants to think about diets at this time
of year - or any time of year really - but don’t forget to provide a little comfort food for the hedgehogs. Dog or cat food, whether dry or wet feed, is a great idea but don’t forget to never put out milk or bread - they are lactose intolerant and bread isn’t ideal either as it has little food value for them. Water is a great idea, just be sure it doesn’t get frozen over.
Aside from the fact that we love these adorable little creatures, hedgehogs play a vital role in both our gardens and the local eco-system. It would be devastating for us to lose any more of the hedgehog population and the fact remains that the more we miss a vital aspect in the natural food chain. As the nights draw in further and the weather gets chiller still, don’t forget to welcome the hedgehogs into your outdoor spaces.
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