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 the survival of hedgehogs during the food-poor winter months. In this article, we take a detailed look at how hedgehogs prepare for hibernation, what conditions are required for safe hibernation and how we can support this important process.

Preparing hedgehogs for hibernation in winter

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

Characteristics of a healthy hedgehog before hibernation:

• Rounded body shape
• Active behaviour
• Ability to curl up into a ball in case of danger

Supporting underweight hedgehogs in winter before hibernation

Recognising underweight hedgehogs in winter

An underweight hedgehog is recognisable: it weighs less than 500-600 grams before hibernation begins. Such animals need our help as they cannot survive the winter without sufficient fat reserves.

Feeding underweight hedgehogs in winter

When to feed: Start feeding as soon as you notice that a hedgehog is too light to hibernate - usually in late autumn.

What to feed: High quality Cat or hedgehog food is suitable. Wet food is preferable, as it also covers their fluid requirements. Supplement the diet with special dry hedgehog food. Look out for high-quality ready-made food and seek advice. Avoid food with a high grain content.

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

Winterising hedgehogs at home in winter

Preparation of the neighbourhood: An insulated and cool room, such as an unheated cellar or garage, is ideal. Avoid places with large temperature fluctuations.

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

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

Further procedure:

• Check the hedgehog's weight regularly.
• Offer water and food until the hedgehog goes into hibernation.
• Ensure that the hedgehog is protected against parasite infestation, if necessary with the help of a vet.

Additional tips for hedgehogs in winter

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

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

What I should never feed a malnourished hedgehog in winter

It's wonderful that you want to look after the welfare of malnourished hedgehogs! There are some foods that you should avoid as they are not suitable or even harmful for hedgehogs:

Dairy products

Why not? Hedgehogs are lactose intolerant, which means that they cannot digest lactose. Feeding dairy products can lead to diarrhoea and dehydration, which can be very dangerous in an already weakened animal.

Bread

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

Sugary or flavoured foods

Why not? Sugary foods can lead to dental damage, obesity and diabetes. Flavoured foods are not suitable for hedgehogs' digestive systems 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. Raw meat could also spoil quickly, especially in warmer temperatures, and therefore pose a health risk.

Nuts

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

Insects from the pet shop

Why not? While insects are a natural food source for hedgehogs, certain insects from pet shops (such as some maggots or large mealworms) can lead to bone problems if fed in excess, as they have an unfavourable calcium-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 poisonous to hedgehogs and can lead to severe symptoms of poisoning.

Avocado and raw potatoes

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

Fruit with large seeds

Why not? Fruits such as peaches or plums have large pits that can pose a choking hazard. Parts of these seeds can also be poisonous.

By avoiding these foods, you are protecting the health of the hedgehogs. Instead, it is safer to offer special, high-quality, low- or grain-free hedgehog food, wet cat or dog food or chopped, boiled eggs. Fresh water should always be available. With this care, you are offering your prickly friends the best support to regain their strength.

How can I help a healthy hedgehog on site in winter?

Of course, I am happy to help you understand how you can help a healthy hedgehog in your garden or neighbourhood!

Create nesting opportunities

Hedgehogs need safe places to nest, hide and hibernate:

• Piles of leaves and brushwoodLeave piles of leaves and twigs in quiet places in the garden. These serve as hiding places and nesting material for hedgehogs.
• Hedgehog houseA special hedgehog house can provide a safe refuge. 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 maintenanceA nature-friendly garden with a variety of plants attracts insects and thus offers hedgehogs a natural source of food.
• Avoid chemicalsUse biological pesticides and avoid chemical pesticides, which can destroy the hedgehog's food supply.

Offer safe drinking opportunities

Hedgehogs need access to water, especially during dry periods:

• Water bowlsPlace out shallow bowls of fresh water, especially during dry and hot periods.

Minimise risks

Hedgehogs are often exposed to dangers that you can minimise:

• Fences and netsMake sure that fences and garden boundaries do not trap hedgehogs or cut them off. Check nets so that hedgehogs don't get caught.
• Securing garden pondsMake sure that garden ponds provide an exit for hedgehogs in case they fall in.
• Store waste safelyPrevent hedgehogs from getting stuck in rubbish by stowing rubbish securely and closing litter bins tightly.
• Take care when gardening: Before mowing or using garden tools, check whether hedgehogs could be hiding.

Monitoring and assistance

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

• ObservationHedgehogs that wander around 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 organisation or a Veterinarian.

By providing a safe environment and minimising hazards, you can make a valuable contribution to the protection and welfare of hedgehogs in your area. These small measures go a long way towards ensuring that hedgehogs can live a healthy and safe life in your neighbourhood.

How do hedgehogs hibernate when the weather is too warm?

Oh, that's an interesting question! Hedgehogs are known for hibernating, 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 plenty of food, some hedgehogs may decide to postpone hibernation or skip it altogether in a mild winter.

Hibernation and warm weather

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

• Energy consumptionHedgehogs that do not hibernate continue to use energy to stay active. This can become problematic if they have not accumulated enough fat reserves or if the food supply is scarce.
• NutritionHedgehogs can continue to feed on insects and other small creatures that they normally eat, as these are also more active in warmer temperatures.
• ReproductionIn some cases, a warm winter can cause hedgehogs to start breeding earlier, resulting in a longer breeding season.

Support for hedgehogs in warm weather

If you notice that hedgehogs are active in your area in winter, you can help them as follows:

• Offer shelterEven if they do not hibernate, hedgehogs need safe places to protect themselves from predators and to rest.
• Provide waterA bowl of fresh water is particularly important when it is dry and the hedgehogs are more active.
• Offer foodIf you notice the hedgehogs roaming around, you can offer them high-quality, low-cereal hedgehog food, cat or dog food to support them.

Important to note

If you see an active hedgehog in winter, it is advisable to observe it. If it looks healthy and lively, everything is probably fine. However, if it appears weak or ill, you should contact a local hedgehog rescue centre or a Veterinarian to get professional help.

In times of climate change, such unusual weather conditions may occur more often, so it's great that you are mindful 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 have to help the hedgehog in winter in extremely cold weather?

Of course, hedgehogs can use some extra help in extremely cold weather! In the cold season, especially when temperatures drop sharply and snow or frost set 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 on how you can help hedgehogs in icy weather:

1. Hedgehog quartersOffer a protected shelter. Hedgehog houses are easy to build yourself from wood or you can buy them ready-made. These should be lined with dry leaves, straw or wood shavings to provide the hedgehogs with cosy winter quarters.
2. Access to waterMake sure that the hedgehogs have access to drinking water. In freezing weather, make sure the water does not freeze. A heavy bowl will prevent it from tipping over and a small ball floating in the water can prevent it from freezing so quickly.
3. Food supplyWhen it is very cold, hedgehogs often do not find enough food. You can help out with special, high-quality hedgehog food (see above), cat food or boiled eggs (unflavoured 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 victimsIf you find a hypothermic or weak hedgehog, it is important to keep it warm and dry. Take it to a warm place and contact a hedgehog centre or vet to find out how you should proceed.
5. Be careful with road salt and antifreezeThese substances can be dangerous for hedgehogs. Make sure that they do not come into contact with these substances.
6. Check the winter quartersIf you have already set up a hedgehog house, check that it is still dry and protected.
7. Inform yourself and your neighbourhoodMany people don't know how they can help hedgehogs in winter. Share your knowledge and experience to create more awareness.

By caring for them, you can make a big difference to the lives of these little spiny creatures, especially when the temperatures drop very low. Your support will give the hedgehogs the help they need to survive the cold season safe and sound!

How should hedgehogs generally be fed in winter during hibernation?

Hedgehogs are fascinating little creatures, and their hibernation is a particularly interesting aspect of their behaviour. During hibernation, hedgehogs reduce their metabolism to a minimum, which means that they do not actually actively consume food during this time. Preparation for hibernation and proper nutrition prior to this state are therefore crucial for the survival of hedgehogs during the cold months.

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

Before hibernation:

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

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

3. no dairy products: Milk and dairy products are not tolerated by hedgehogs as they cannot digest lactose well. It can lead to diarrhoea, 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 as the hedgehogs fast and live off their fat reserves.

2. hibernation breaks: It can happen that a hedgehog wakes up during periods of mild weather in winter. If this happens, it can be helpful to offer food so that the hedgehog can replenish its energy reserves.

3. no fault: It is important not to disturb hedgehogs during hibernation. Disturbance 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 part of their body weight. At this point, it is helpful to offer them food again so that they can regain their strength. During this phase, hedgehogs should be given easily accessible, high-quality food and fresh water.

The exact care and feeding may vary depending on local circumstances and the availability of resources. For individual cases, especially when dealing with sick or injured hedgehogs, it is best to contact local wildlife carers or hedgehog rescue centres who can offer professional advice and assistance.

Can hedgehogs bring in any parasites that can spread to other pets or humans?

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

Fleas

• Hedgehogs often have their own specific flea species (Archaeopsylla erinacei), which are not normally problematic for pets and humans. However, it cannot be 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 infest pets and humans if they have the opportunity to do so.

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 humans and pets.

How dangerous can these parasites become?

• For healthy adults, the parasites transmitted by hedgehogs are usually not particularly dangerous, but they can be unpleasant for immunocompromised people, children and pets and may require medical treatment.
• 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 are present.

Precautionary measures

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

In general, it is therefore important to pay attention to hygiene and seek expert advice if necessary, especially if you invite hedgehogs into your garden or even take them into your home. With the right precautions and care, hedgehogs can be fascinating and useful garden inhabitants without any great risk to humans or pets.

What symptoms should I report with a hedgehog in winter to a Veterinarian go?

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

Visible injuries or abnormalities

• Obvious wounds, swellings or injured limbs.
• Signs of parasite infestation, such as many ticks, fleas or skin that looks scaly and inflamed.

Conspicuous behaviour

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

Weight and nutritional 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 bone protrusions.
• Lack of interest in food or inability to eat.

Respiratory symptoms

• Noticeable 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.

Behavioural changes during hibernation

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

If you find a hedgehog showing any of these symptoms, it is best to place it in a box with air holes and a warm blanket (but without a hot water bottle, as this can cause burns) and contact a vet or hedgehog rescue centre immediately. They will be able to professionally assess the hedgehog's condition and take the necessary measures.

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

Do I have to pay anything to the vet?

That is a very understandable question! In Germany, the cost of treating wild animals, such as hedgehogs, often depends on the practice and the circumstances.

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

If you take a hedgehog to the vet, it is advisable to call in advance and find out about the costs. Explain the situation; many vets are willing to help rescue wild animals and minimise or waive the costs.

If there are costs for the treatment and you are not in a financial position to do so, you can contact local animal welfare organisations or wildlife charities. They may be able to help with the treatment or take the hedgehog in for further care.

Your commitment to the hedgehog and your desire to help are 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 wildlife.

Summary Hedgehogs in winter

The „hedgehog in winter“ is a small survival artist that needs to prepare itself for the cold season. As hedgehogs hibernate in winter, their main concern in autumn is to build up sufficient fat reserves. Hedgehogs in winter look for sheltered 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 will not be able to survive hibernation. It is therefore important that the hedgehog has reached a sufficient weight in winter before the first frost.

Hedgehogs in winter have a resting pulse and a low body temperature in order 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, this can be dangerous as it loses valuable energy reserves. You should therefore not unnecessarily wake or relocate a hedgehog in winter.

If a hedgehog is visibly wandering around in 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 haven and food in winter. The hedgehog in winter benefits from being fed cat food or special, high-quality hedgehog food, but never milk or bread as this causes digestive problems.

Sometimes hedgehogs are unable to find enough food in winter, especially in urban areas. An additional source of food can be essential 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 ill or injured in winter, it should be taken to the vet. There the hedgehog will receive professional care in winter and can be released again once it has recovered.

Caring for a hedgehog in winter can be a challenge, but also a very rewarding experience. Anyone taking 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.

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

Further links

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

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

https://www.igelverein.de/

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