The hedgehog in winter: What you should know!

Introduction

With the onset of the cold season, hedgehogs retreat into hibernation. This natural phenomenon is crucial for hedgehogs' survival during the food-poor winter months. In this article, we'll take a closer look at how hedgehogs prepare for hibernation, what conditions are needed for safe hibernation, and how we can support this important process.

Preparing hedgehogs for hibernation in winter

Hedgehogs begin preparing for hibernation in late summer. They begin to eat more food to build up their fat reserves. An adult hedgehog needs a minimum weight of around 1 kilogram to survive the winter.

Characteristics of a healthy hedgehog before hibernation:

• Rounded body shape
• Active behavior
• Ability to curl into a ball when threatened

Supporting underweight hedgehogs in the winter before hibernation

Detecting underweight hedgehogs in winter

An underweight hedgehog can be recognized: It weighs less than 500-600 grams before the start of hibernation. Such animals need our help because they would not be able to survive the winter without sufficient fat reserves.

Feeding underweight hedgehogs in winter

When to feed: Begin supplemental feeding as soon as you notice that a hedgehog is too light for hibernation - usually noticeable in late fall.

What to feed: High-quality cat or hedgehog food is suitable. Wet food is preferable as it also covers the fluid requirements. Supplement the diet with special dry hedgehog food. Make sure you choose high-quality ready-made food and seek advice. Avoid foods with a high grain content.

How to feed: Place food in a sheltered area to keep it away from moisture and other animals. A feeding house with an entrance lock protects against cats. Fresh water should always be available.

Wintering hedgehogs in your own home in the winter

Preparing the Quarters: An insulated and cool room, such as an unheated basement or garage, is ideal. Avoid places with large temperature fluctuations.

Setting up the winter quarters: A large box with air holes serves as accommodation. Line the floor with newspaper and a thick layer of straw or leaves on top so that the hedgehog can burrow.

Temperature: The temperature should be consistently between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius to promote hibernation.

Further action:

• Check the hedgehog's weight regularly.
• Offer water and food until the hedgehog goes into hibernation.
• Make sure the hedgehog is protected from parasite infestation, with the help of a veterinarian if necessary.

Additional tips for hedgehogs in winter

• Hedgehogs are solitary creatures; make sure each hedgehog has its own quarters.
• Avoid disturbing the hedgehog during its hibernation.
• Keep pets away from the hedgehog's winter quarters.

By following these steps, you will make a vital contribution to the survival of young and underweight hedgehogs and help boost the population of these useful and fascinating garden animals.

What should I definitely not feed a malnourished hedgehog in winter?

It's wonderful that you want to care about the well-being of malnourished hedgehogs! There are some foods that you should avoid because they are unsuitable or even harmful for hedgehogs:

Dairy products

Why not? Hedgehogs are lactose intolerant, meaning they cannot digest milk sugar. Feeding dairy products can cause diarrhea and dehydration, which can be very dangerous in an already weakened animal.

Bread

Why not? Bread provides no nutritional benefit for hedgehogs and can cause digestive problems if consumed in excess. It can also swell in the stomach and lead to blockages.

Sugary or spicy foods

Why not? Sugary foods can lead to tooth damage, obesity and diabetes. Spicy foods are not suitable for the hedgehog's digestive system and can cause gastrointestinal problems.

Raw fish and raw meat

Why not? The risk of transmitting diseases such as salmonella is increased with raw fish and meat. In addition, raw meat could spoil quickly, especially in warmer temperatures, posing a health risk.

nuts

Why not? Because of their size and hardness, nuts can pose a choking hazard or cause internal injuries. They are also difficult for hedgehogs to digest.

Insects from the pet store

Why not? While insects are a natural food source for hedgehogs, certain pet store insects (such as some maggots or large mealworms) when fed in excess can cause bone problems because they have an unfavorable calcium to phosphorus ratio.

Salty snacks and chocolate

Why not? Salty snacks contain too much salt, which can lead to serious health problems. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to hedgehogs and can cause serious symptoms of poisoning.

Avocado and raw potatoes

Why not? Certain parts of avocado can be toxic to hedgehogs, and raw potatoes contain solanine, which is also toxic to hedgehogs.

Fruits with large seeds

Why not? Fruits like peaches or plums have large pits that can pose a choking hazard. In addition, parts of these cores can be poisonous.

By avoiding these foods, you protect the hedgehogs' health. Instead, it is safer to offer special, high-quality, low- or no-grain hedgehog food, wet cat or dog food, or crushed, boiled eggs. Fresh water should always be available. With this care you offer your prickly friends the best support to regain their strength.

How can I help a healthy hedgehog in the winter?

Of course, I'm happy to help you understand how you can help a healthy hedgehog in your garden or surrounding area!

Create nesting opportunities

Hedgehogs need safe places to nest, hide and hibernate:

• Pile of leaves and brushwood : Leave piles of leaves and twigs in quiet areas of the garden. These serve as hiding places and nesting material for hedgehogs.
• Hedgehog House : A special hedgehog house can provide a safe haven. Place it in a quiet place and cover it with leaves and twigs.

Promote natural food sources

Hedgehogs feed on insects and other small animals:

• Garden care : A nature-friendly garden with a variety of plants attracts insects and therefore provides a natural food source for hedgehogs.
• Avoid chemicals : Use biological pesticides and avoid chemical pesticides, which can destroy the hedgehogs' food supply.

Provide safe drinking opportunities

Hedgehogs need access to water, especially during dry periods:

• Water Bowls : Place shallow bowls of fresh water, especially during dry and hot periods.

Minimize dangers

Hedgehogs often face dangers that you can minimize:

• Fences and netting : Make sure fences and garden boundaries do not trap hedgehogs or block their path. Check nets so hedgehogs don't get caught.
• Secure garden ponds : Make sure garden ponds provide escape options for hedgehogs if they fall in.
• Keep trash safe : Prevent hedgehogs from getting stuck in trash by storing trash safely and closing trash containers tightly.
• Be careful when working in the garden : Before mowing or using garden tools, check whether hedgehogs may be hiding.

Monitoring and assistance

Look out for hedgehogs that show themselves during the day or are sick and injured:

• Observation : Hedgehogs that wander during the day may need help. Observe the animal from a distance.
• Professional help : If you find an injured or sick hedgehog, contact a hedgehog rescue or veterinarian .

By providing a safe environment and minimizing dangers, you can make a valuable contribution to the protection and well-being of the hedgehogs in your environment. These small measures make a big contribution to enabling hedgehogs to live a healthy and safe life in your area.

What does hibernation look like for hedgehogs when the weather is too warm?

Oh, that's an interesting question! Hedgehogs are known for their hibernation, but what happens when it's too warm outside?

Well, hedgehogs are very adaptable little creatures and their hibernation is primarily a response to food availability and temperatures. If the weather is unusually warm and there is sufficient food, some hedgehogs may decide to postpone hibernation or skip it altogether in a mild winter.

Winter sleep and warm weather

If it stays warm during the normal hibernation period, this can mean the following for the hedgehog:

• Energy Consumption : Hedgehogs that do not hibernate continue to expend energy to remain active. This can be problematic if they have not accumulated enough fat reserves or if the food supply is scarce.
• Diet : Hedgehogs can continue to feed on the insects and other small creatures they normally eat, as these are also more active in warmer temperatures.
• Reproduction : In some cases, a warm winter can cause hedgehogs to begin breeding earlier, resulting in a longer breeding season.

Support for hedgehogs in warm weather

If you notice that hedgehogs are active in your area during the winter, here are some things you can do to help them:

• Offer shelter : Even if they don't hibernate, hedgehogs need safe places to protect themselves from predators and to rest.
• Provide water : A bowl of fresh water is especially important when it is dry and hedgehogs are more active.
• Offer food : If you notice the hedgehogs roaming, you can offer them high-quality, low-grain hedgehog food, cat or dog food to support them.

Important to note

If you see an active hedgehog in winter, it's a good idea to keep an eye on it. If he looks healthy and happy, everything is probably fine. However, if he appears weak or sick, you should contact a local hedgehog rescue or veterinarian for professional help.

In times of climate change, unusual weather conditions like this can happen more often, so it's great that you're paying attention and ready to help the hedgehogs when they need it!

(C) https://www.veterinaryirelandjournal.com/small-animal/172-hedgehogs-a-practical-approach-to-common-presentations

Do I need to help the hedgehog in winter in extremely cold weather?

Of course, in extremely cold weather conditions, hedgehogs can use some extra help! In the cold season, especially when temperatures drop sharply and snow or frost sets in, hedgehogs that have not yet built up enough fat reserves or have gone into hibernation too late can get into trouble.

Here are a few tips to help hedgehogs in freezing weather:

1. Hedgehog roost : Offer a protected shelter. Hedgehog houses can easily be built yourself out of wood or you can buy them ready-made. These should be lined with dry leaves, straw or wood chips to provide the hedgehogs with a cozy winter quarters.
2. Access to water : Make sure the hedgehogs have access to drinking water. When there is frost, you should make sure that the water does not freeze. A heavy bowl will keep it from tipping over, and a small ball floating in the water can keep it from freezing as quickly.
3. Food supply : When it is very cold, hedgehogs often cannot find enough food. Here you can help out with special, high-quality (see above) hedgehog food, cat food or boiled eggs (unseasoned and chopped). However, you should avoid milk and bread, as these are difficult for hedgehogs to digest and can lead to health problems.
4. First aid for cold victims : If you find a hypothermic or weak hedgehog, it is important to keep it warm and dry. Take him to a warm place and contact a hedgehog shelter or veterinarian to find out what to do next.
5. Be careful with road salt and antifreeze : These substances can be dangerous for hedgehogs. Make sure they do not come into contact with these substances.
6. Check the winter quarters : If you have already set up a hedgehog house, check whether it is still dry and protected.
7. Educate yourself and your neighborhood : Many people don't know how to help hedgehogs in winter. Share your knowledge and experiences to create more awareness.

By caring, you can make a big difference in the lives of these little spiny animals, especially when temperatures drop very low. Your support gives the hedgehogs the help they need to survive the cold season safe and healthy!

What should the hedgehog's diet look like in general during hibernation?

Hedgehogs are fascinating little creatures, and their hibernation is a particularly interesting aspect of their behavior. During hibernation, hedgehogs reduce their metabolism to a minimum, meaning they don't actually actively consume food during this time. Preparing for hibernation and proper nutrition before this state are therefore crucial for hedgehogs' survival in the cold months.

Before hibernation, hedgehogs build up fat reserves that they will use up over the course of the winter. They require a sufficient amount of fat to provide the energy they need to survive while they sleep. Here are a few comprehensive points about nutrition and preparation:

Before hibernation:

1. Natural Diet: Hedgehogs are insectivores, and their natural diet consists of insects, snails, worms and spiders. This food is rich in protein and fat, which helps them build their fat reserves.

2. Supplemental feeding: If people want to support hedgehogs, they should start feeding them in the months before hibernation. Special hedgehog food (see above), unseasoned boiled egg, minced meat or wet cat food in small quantities are well suited. Dry cat food is also suitable because it has a longer shelf life and does not spoil as quickly.

3. No dairy products: Milk and dairy products are not tolerated by hedgehogs because they cannot digest lactose well. It can cause diarrhea, which would be very harmful when preparing for hibernation.

4. Fresh Water: Access to fresh drinking water is very important. This should be renewed daily so that the hedgehogs are well hydrated before hibernation.

During hibernation:

1. No active feeding: During actual hibernation, feeding is not necessary because the hedgehogs fast and live on their fat reserves.

2. Hibernation interruptions: A hedgehog may wake up during periods of mild winter weather. If this happens, it may be helpful to offer food to help the hedgehog replenish its energy reserves.

3. No Disturbance: It is important not to disturb hedgehogs during their hibernation. A disruption can cause them to wake up and lose valuable energy.

After hibernation:

After waking up from hibernation, hedgehogs are often very hungry and have lost a large portion of their body weight. At this time, it is helpful to offer them food again to help them regain their strength. During this phase, hedgehogs should be provided with easily accessible, high-quality food and fresh water.

Exact care and feeding may vary depending on local circumstances and the availability of resources. For individual cases, particularly when it comes to sick or injured hedgehogs, it is best to contact local wildlife carers or hedgehog sanctuaries who can offer professional advice and help.

Can hedgehogs carry any parasites that can spread to other pets or people?

Oh yes, this is an important consideration when considering helping a hedgehog or bringing it near your home. Hedgehogs can actually harbor various parasites that can potentially be transmitted to pets or, in rare cases, humans. Here is some information about it:

Fleas

• Hedgehogs often have their own specific species of fleas (Archaeopsylla erinacei) that are usually not problematic for pets and people. However, it is not completely ruled out that hedgehogs can also carry fleas that infest pets.

Ticks

• Ticks can attach themselves to hedgehogs and are carriers of various diseases, such as Lyme disease. These ticks can also attack pets and people if given the opportunity.

Mites

• Ear mites and skin mites can occur in hedgehogs and cause skin inflammation, itching and hair loss. In rare cases, they can also infect pets.

worms

• Hedgehogs can carry various types of worms, including roundworms (nematodes), which can potentially be passed on to pets. Regular deworming of pets is therefore important.

Mushrooms

• Hedgehogs can be carriers of ringworm, a fungal infection that can also affect people and pets.

How dangerous can these parasites be?

• The parasites carried by hedgehogs are usually not particularly dangerous for healthy adults, but they can be uncomfortable and require medical treatment for immunocompromised people, children and pets.
• It is always advisable to wash your hands thoroughly after handling hedgehogs or their habitat.
• Pets should be regularly checked for parasites and treated accordingly, especially if they have access to areas where hedgehogs frequent.

Precautions

• If you help a hedgehog, be sure to wear gloves and follow hygiene measures.
• If the hedgehog shows signs of illness, it is best to have it examined by professionals.
• Make sure hedgehogs' and pets' sleeping areas are separate and that pets do not have access to hedgehog food or water.

In general, it is important to pay attention to hygiene and seek expert advice if necessary, especially if you invite hedgehogs into your garden or even into your home. With the right prevention and care, hedgehogs can be fascinating and useful garden residents without much risk to people and pets.

What symptoms should I take a hedgehog to a vet ?

If you find a hedgehog in the winter and are unsure whether it needs medical attention, there are certain signs you should look out for. Here are some symptoms that would warrant a visit to the vet:

Visible injuries or abnormalities

• Obvious wounds, swelling, or injured limbs.
• Signs of parasitic infestation, such as lots of ticks, fleas, or skin that looks scaly and inflamed.

Unusual behavior

• Dull, shaggy or lost fur can indicate nutritional deficiencies or illness.
• Apathy or inability to move normally - healthy hedgehogs are usually nimble and alert when awake.
• Persistent shivering may indicate hypothermia or illness.

Weight and nutrition problems

• Hedgehogs that weigh less than 600 grams late in the year (November to early December) may be too light to survive hibernation.
• Emaciated appearance or visible bony prominences.
• Lack of interest in food or inability to eat.

Respiratory symptoms

• Unusual breathing noises, wheezing or sneezing can be signs of respiratory diseases.

Unnatural postures

• Bending the body in an unnatural way.
• Inability to curl up into a ball.

Discharge or secretions

• Discharge from the nose, eyes, or mouth can indicate infections.

Behavioral changes during hibernation

• A hedgehog disturbed during hibernation and having difficulty falling back asleep.
• A hedgehog that is active in the winter cold but appears confused or lethargic.

If you find a hedgehog exhibiting any of these symptoms, it's best to put it in a box with air holes and a warm blanket (but not a hot water bottle, as this can cause burns) and contact a veterinarian or hedgehog rescue center immediately. You can professionally assess the hedgehog's condition and take the necessary measures.

Remember that hedgehogs are wild animals and require specialized care, so it is always the safest option to consult experts before attempting to treat a sick or injured hedgehog yourself. Your attention and care can make a huge difference to the survival of a hedgehog in need!

Do I have to pay anything at the vet?

This is a very understandable question! In Germany, the costs for treating wild animals such as hedgehogs often depend on the respective practice and the circumstances.

Many veterinarians treat injured wild animals free of charge or for a small fee that covers basic costs. There are also specialized hedgehog stations and wildlife rescues that look after such animals. These organizations often work on a voluntary basis and rely on donations.

If you are taking a hedgehog to the vet, it is advisable to call ahead to find out the costs. Explain the situation; many veterinarians are willing to help save wildlife and minimize or waive the costs.

If there are costs for treatment and you are not financially able to do so, you can contact local animal protection associations or wildlife aid organizations. Under certain circumstances, they can support the treatment or take over the hedgehog for further care.

Your commitment to the hedgehog and your desire to help is truly commendable. Don't forget to also ask for advice and support from your community or friends - people are often happy to help when it comes to protecting and caring for wild animals.

Summary hedgehogs in winter

The “hedgehog in winter” is a little survival artist who has to prepare especially for the cold season. Since the hedgehog hibernates in the winter, its main concern in the fall is to build up enough fat reserves. The hedgehog in winter looks for a protected winter quarters, often a hedgehog house or a pile of leaves and brushwood. If the hedgehog does not have enough fat reserves in winter, it cannot survive hibernation. It is therefore important that the hedgehog has reached sufficient weight in the winter before the first frost.

The hedgehog in winter is tuned to a resting heart rate and a low body temperature to conserve energy. Sometimes the hedgehog wakes up from hibernation in winter to urinate or find a new place to sleep. If the hedgehog is disturbed in winter, it can be dangerous as it causes it to lose valuable energy reserves. Therefore, you should not wake up or relocate a hedgehog unnecessarily in winter.

If a hedgehog is visibly wandering during the winter, it may need help. A young or underweight hedgehog in winter is often unable to survive on its own. In this case, people can intervene by offering the hedgehog a safe asylum and food during the winter. The hedgehog in winter benefits from feeding cat food or special high quality hedgehog food, but never milk or bread as these cause digestive problems.

Sometimes the hedgehog is unable to find enough food in winter, especially in urban areas. An additional source of food can be important for the hedgehog's survival in winter. The hedgehog in winter also needs water, a bowl of fresh water can be very helpful. If a hedgehog is sick or injured in winter, it should be taken to the vet. The hedgehog will receive professional care there in the winter and can be released again after recovery.

Caring for your hedgehog in winter can be a challenge but also a very rewarding experience. Anyone who takes in a hedgehog in winter should be well informed and respect the needs of this wild animal. The hedgehog in winter teaches us how to care for the weaker members of our ecosystems.

Finally, the hedgehog in winter is a fascinating example of how animals adapt to the challenges of nature. With a little support from us humans, the hedgehog can safely survive hibernation in the winter and start the new season stronger in the spring.

Related Links

https://www.pro-igel.de/

https://www.igel-verein.org/igelhilfeAnsprachpartner.html

https://www.igelverein.de/

https://www.netzwerk-igel-wuppertal.de/links