Guidelines for Disturbing and Feeding Wild Hedgehogs

Disturbing a hibernating hedgehog can be dangerous. During hibernation the animal’s body temperature, heart rate and breathing slow dramatically, and premature awakening may deplete its energy reserves and cause health problems. Intervention should be limited to situations where the hedgehog’s well‑being is at risk.

Providing supplemental food to wild hedgehogs can improve body condition, increase survival rates before hibernation, and aid breeding females. However, feeding nightly may create dependency, reduce natural foraging skills, and lead to nutritional imbalances. Best practice recommends occasional, not daily, feeding and using appropriate food to support the animals without disrupting their natural behavior.