This month’s topic is a beloved British classic – a creature often found in literature, with Beatrix Potter’s Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle being one of its most charming portrayals. The European Hedgehog is one of 17 species found globally and is the only one we have here in the UK.

Hedgehogs are hard to come across – not just because of their nocturnal habits, but also due to their unfortunate decline in numbers. They are true hibernators, spending the winter months tucked away in shelter. But, interestingly, they don’t actually sleep during hibernation; instead, they enter a state called ‘torpor’ – a kind of low-power mode where their body temperature drops to match their surroundings.

Hedgehog romance explained
A frequent question I always have for hedgehogs is, how on earth they produce young with all those spikes?! Males will compete for females in similar battles to deer. Headbutting and chasing is common, and you will certainly be able to hear it if it happens in your garden.

Courtship between a successful male and female involves a lengthy soundtrack of puffing and snorting noises. The female will lie still with her spines flattened as much as possible (much to the male’s appreciation), before the final act takes place.

Hedgehogs give birth around June and July, so you could see little hoglets at this time of year. Baby hedgehogs are born with their iconic spikes but, crucially, they are covered in a layer of skin and fluid which protects both the mothers and her young (phew!) during birth. The spikes unsheathe a few hours after. Usually, an average litter size of five is produced, although only two or three tend to be weaned to adulthood.

A hedgehog’s choice from the wild menu
Hedgehogs are welcome guests in any garden, especially if you’re fending off slugs. With their insectivorous and carnivorous diet, they happily munch through all the bugs and critters. They will also seize the opportunity to gobble up a frog or a fallen bird’s egg.

But one important note: hedgehogs are lactose intolerant! The historic idea of offering them milk is actually harmful – it can cause serious illness or even be fatal. Please don’t feed them milk. If you think a hedgehog needs a helping hand, opt for plain pet biscuits or meat-based dog or cat food. Specialist hedgehog foods are also available, though it’s worth noting they aren’t currently regulated for effectiveness.

Tips for supporting these prickly creatures
Hedgehogs need to roam, so a small hole (13 x 13 cm) at the base of your fence can create vital corridors between gardens. Leave out a shallow bowl of water – essential in hot weather for both hedgehogs and other wildlife.

If you have a pond, make sure there’s a ramp or sloped edge to help hedgehogs climb out; they can swim but they tire quickly. For a fun family summer activity, try Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust’s mini pond tutorial using a washing-up bowl: youtube.com/watch?v=8tTqTNZS5Uk