The European Hedgehog

If you would like to care for sick, injured or Orphaned Baby Hoglets, then this page will come in great use.

Although it is illegal to keep Hedgehogs as Pets, there is nothing to stop you from caring for a Hedgehog in need. As well as that, some Hedgehogs can't be released back into the wild for their own good. Such Hedgehogs are kept in enclosed Gardens.

By taking in Hedgehogs in need, then releasing them when they are better, you are saving lives.

Hedgehog rescues are dedicated to doing this.                                             

Some Hedgehogs will be too underweight to Hibernate, and as a result they may die. To successfully Hibernate a Hedgehog must be at least 600g.

Hedgehog rescues are very busy at this time of year because many late born Hedgehogs are too small to Hibernate. They are kept over Winter and are then released some time around April/May, depending on their health.

Juvenile Hedgehogs:

Always be on the look out for Juvenile Hedgehogs in Autumn and Winter. Some will be very young indeed, we call these 'orphaned Hoglets', these will need extra help, because they are so young. There are also other late born Hedgehogs, which have left the nest naturally, but are still underweight.

If you find one baby Hedgehog, then always look out for others, as the rest of the litter should not be far away. The average number of Hoglets in a litter is 4 - 5, so you can expect a few more to turn up!

I recommend that if you find a Hedgehog under the weaning age (6 - 7 weeks) then you pass it onto a Wildlife/Hedgehog Rescue, unless you know how to do so yourself.  

A Shed of about 6' x 4' will be big enough to House 6 or 7 Juvenile Hedgehogs during the Winter. They will need: Shelter. The Hedgehogs will need to be kept in a sheltered area that is not damp. Warmth. It is essential that Hedgehogs are kept warm during the cold months. Food. (See the Attract Hedgehogs page).

Page last updated: 9th July 2009

Whether you're thinking of becoming a long-term Hedgehog carer, or you're just looking after a sick Hog for a few days, you'll need to get some of the basic information about how to look after our spikey friends.

The Hedgehog will need a place to stay, and there are many options available as to what to keep them in. Here, I'll give you some information on what's best to keep a Hedgehog in.

Cardboard Boxes: If you're not planning on looking after the Hedgehog for a long period of time, cardboard boxes are ideal. They are cheap and easy to get hold of. However, Hedgehogs have been known to esacpe from them, which happens when the Hedgehog starts clawing at the box. This is made especially easy should the box become damp from food and water.

Indoor Cages: They are great for long-term use. If you get a big enough one, they are ideal. However, they do cost more than cardboard boxes, but at least the Hedgehog wont escape.