Action Plan: Hedgehog

Hedgehogs are the only spiny British mammal having up to 7000 dense sharp brown spines on its back and sides. When threatened, it curls into a ball, so that the spines offer protection. The chest and belly are covered in coarse grey-brown fur.

These widespread mammals are found in most lowland habitats, but are most commonly seen in areas where there is grassland close to woodland, scrub or hedgerow. Urban and suburban gardens have become particularly important to hedgehogs seeking food and nest sites.

Hedgehogs are mostly nocturnal, and can travel up to 2km in their nightly forages for food. Beetles, caterpillars, earthworms, slugs and snails are the hedgehog's favourite food, but the diet is varied and they will also eat cereals, pet foods, and fresh meat.

Hedgehogs build nests called hibernacula in which to avoid the coldest times of winter by hibernating, usually between November and early April, depending on the weather. Favourite sites for these are under timber buildings, in piles of brushwood or leaves, or in compost heaps. If it is warm enough and there is enough food, hedgehogs do not hibernate at all. Hedgehogs need to be in good condition physically and weigh over 600 grams before they enter hibernation.