Winter came late for the UK's Hedgehogs
Posted: Jan 28 2017
Active Hedgehogs were being seen in gardens well into December, according to reports from the British Trust for Ornithology’s (BTO) weekly Garden BirdWatch scheme. Volunteer Garden BirdWatchers reported more Hedgehogs in November and December than in previous years.
Before the onset of winter, Hedgehogs are busy foraging for earthworms and insects to gain plentiful fat reserves. These reserves are crucial for surviving during their hibernation, which is normally from November to March. The results from Garden BirdWatch show that more Hedgehogs were active later this winter.
With Hedgehog numbers declining, they need all the help they can get. If you haven't got one, why not set up a Hedgehog nest box in your garden? We produce two Hedgehog boxes, either of which would make a great home for the winter: a traditional wooden box (the Hedgehog Nest Box) and the newly launched Eco Hedgehog Nest Box made from 100% recycled plastic. We have also introduced a matching new Eco Hedgehog Feeding Station for use once they emerge from hibernation.
This is the 20th year we have been taking part in the BTO Garden BirdWatch scheme. If, like us, you enjoy watching wildlife in your garden, why not join Garden BirdWatch? It's rewarding and great fun. Just visit www.bto.org/gbw.