Hedgehogs will keep coming back to your garden if you place 1 thing outside
Hedgehogs are about to start hibernating for the winter, but there are steps you can take to encourage them into your garden
October signals the conclusion of the hedgehog foraging period. This is when they're at their most active, making it prime time to spot them wandering through your garden, reports the Manchester Evening News.
While they're preparing to hunker down for their winter slumber, there are measures you can implement to entice them onto your property. Given that the species is in decline, these actions provide the additional advantage of offering hedgehogs a vital lifeline.
In a clip posted on TikTok, gardening expert Deb revealed some straightforward advice for attracting them. She explained there are effortless methods to lure them in. To encourage their visits, she mentioned you simply need to implement one key strategy.
Deb explained: "Now, it may seem simple, but the first thing to do is make sure you have a hedgehog highway. Hedgehogs can roam up to one mile each night.
"If you have a fenced garden, make sure that there's a gap in the fence, or a gap under your garden gate. Provide shelter for the hedgehog.
"A log pile, compost heap or purpose-built house in a shaded spot will give hedgehogs a safe place to rest and hibernate. Provide food and water, not milk. Contrary to popular belief, milk is bad for hedgehogs. Do not leave milk out. Leave out fresh water."
She mentioned you can also purchase hedgehog biscuits to scatter around your garden for them. This will offer them some delicious treats to enjoy.
She also mentioned that hedgehogs are fond of gardens with leafy trees, so it's worth bearing this in mind. If you don't have these, Deb suggested it might be a good idea to plant some.
Why do hedgehogs like shelter?
Hedgehogs are attracted to gardens as they provide a secure environment along with food, water and shelter. These elements are essential for them to rest, raise their young and hibernate safely.
They are typically drawn to quiet, dry and secluded spots found in gardens. Compost heaps, log piles or areas under sheds and dense foliage are among their favourite haunts.
That's why creating a "wild corner" with a stack of logs, leaves and garden debris is beneficial, as it offers perfect nesting material and shelter. You can also purchase or construct a purpose-built hedgehog house.
If you're stoking the fire more frequently at present, you'll be pleased to know they adore log piles. These offer both food and shelter.
Log piles create a habitat for insects like beetles and woodlice, which are primary food sources for hedgehogs.
They also provide a safe haven for hedgehogs to hibernate, breed and rest as the piles offer protection from predators. Introducing some simple things into your garden can encourage them to visit.