Helping Hedgehogs Visiting Your Garden Year Round

Although they are not a native species to Ireland hedgehogs are one of the country’s most beloved wild animals. However, in recent years these small spiky mammals have been facing more danger than ever. British hedgehog populations have declined to historically low levels and were put on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List in 2020.  Various factors like busy roads, machinery, unsafe water sources, litter and a loss in habitat have been noted as having negative effects on hedgehog populations. Ireland has faced many of the same ecological problems and thus it can be presumed that hedgehogs have been struggling in the same ways in this country as in Britain.  

Many small changes can be made in your garden to protect these hedgehogs during the Spring and Summer and to ensure that they survive the long winter months where they go into hibernation in hedgerows and under leaf piles. Leaving a small area of your garden wild will encourage a range of insects to create a habitat which in turn will provide a plentiful food source for the hedgehogs that may visit your garden. In the later months of the year when insects are less plentiful wet cat or dog food can be left out for hedgehogs. Having a fresh water source that is accessible to the visiting hedgehogs is vital, however the water source must be at a safe depth.  

If you encounter sick or injured hedgehogs contact your local wildlife rescue or ISPCA branch for advice and help. To record sightings of hedgehogs on your farm, in your garden or your local area visit the Irish Hedgehog Survey here