Hedgehog
Garden Wildlife
Hedgehogs are much-loved nocturnal mammals that travel through gardens in search of food and shelter. They can help by eating slugs, snails and other invertebrates, but they need connected, wildlife-friendly neighbourhoods to thrive. A garden that offers safe routes, cover and natural food can become an important stop on their nightly journeys.
How to identify it
An adult hedgehog is typically 20-30 cm long, with brown-and-cream spines, a pointed snout, small ears and a rounded body. It may curl into a tight ball when frightened. Young hoglets are smaller and develop their spines soon after birth. Hedgehogs do not undergo insect-like life stages: females give birth to live young, which grow into adults. Sightings are most likely after dusk, often signalled by rustling.
How it helps your garden
Hedgehogs eat slugs, snails, beetles, caterpillars and other invertebrates, helping limit some garden pests naturally. Their main value is as part of a diverse food web rather than as a complete solution to any one problem. A garden welcoming hedgehogs also tends to provide cover and chemical-free conditions that benefit frogs, beetles, birds and pollinators.
How to attract it
Cut a hedgehog highway, about 13 cm square, at ground level in fences where neighbours agree, linking gardens safely. Provide log and leaf piles, a sheltered hedge base and access to shallow water with an escape slope. Cover drains and netting hazards, check compost before turning it, and avoid pesticides and slug pellets. Grow long-season single flowers, including RHS Plants for Pollinators, and retain wild corners.
Tips
Never move a hedgehog unless it is in immediate danger, and do not disturb a nest. Check long grass, bonfires and compost heaps carefully before cutting, lighting or turning. Keep ponds accessible with a ramp so animals can climb out if they fall in.
Hedgehog: frequently asked questions
How does hedgehog help the garden?
Hedgehogs eat slugs, snails, beetles, caterpillars and other invertebrates, helping limit some garden pests naturally.
How do I attract hedgehog to my garden?
Cut a hedgehog highway, about 13 cm square, at ground level in fences where neighbours agree, linking gardens safely.
How do I identify hedgehog?
An adult hedgehog is typically 20-30 cm long, with brown-and-cream spines, a pointed snout, small ears and a rounded body.
General guidance for encouraging wildlife in UK gardens. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.