Hedgehogs are about to start hibernating for the winter, but there are steps you can take to encourage them into your gardenKatie-Ann Gupwell and Ellen Jenne U35 Spare Time Writer
10:48, 21 Oct 2025Updated 09:45, 24 Oct 2025
Bonfire night: How to protect hedgehogs and wildlife from fires
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.
Hedgehogs are about to start hibernating for the winter, but there are steps you can take to encourage them into your garden(Image: kwasny221 via Getty Images)
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.”
Gardens offer hedgehogs the chance to find warmth, shelter and food(Image: Getty)
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.
Content cannot be displayed without consentWhy 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.
Get gardening tips straight to your WhatsApp!
As summer fast approaches, we all want to have our gardens looking fabulous and thanks to our WhatsApp group you’ll get all the latest tips and tricks.
All you have to do to join is click on this link, select ‘Join Chat’ and you’re in! We may also send you stories from other titles across the Reach group.
We will also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose Exit group. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
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.