A high-quality hedgehog house provides a safe space for hibernation, nesting, and shelter from predators. With CJ Wildlife and the Dutch Hedgehog Protection Society (Egelbescherming Nederland), you can turn your garden into a true hedgehog haven.
Why Choose a Truly Safe and Durable Hedgehog House?
Not all hedgehog houses are equally suitable or safe. Many lack essential features such as ventilation, or are made from the wrong materials, which can lead to damp conditions and even endanger hedgehogs. Egelbescherming Nederland always recommends investing in a well-designed, high-quality hedgehog house. Only then can hedgehogs benefit from:
- Maximum protection – A proper hedgehog home protects against foxes, cats, martens, and other predators.
- Healthy living conditions – With proper ventilation and drainage, you avoid mould and damp bedding.
- A year-round shelter – Hedgehogs use the house for both winter hibernation and springtime nesting.
CJ Wildlife designs and sells only hedgehog houses tested for safety and quality, in collaboration with the Dutch Hedgehog Protection Society.
How to Choose the Best Hedgehog House for Your Garden
A good garden hedgehog house must meet several technical and practical criteria. If you want to truly support local hedgehogs, pay attention to the following features:
- Eco-friendly materials – Always opt for FSC-certified wood or recycled materials. These are safe for animals and resistant to moisture.
- Protective entrance tunnel – A long, narrow entrance helps keep predators out while offering the hedgehog peace and security.
- Effective ventilation and drainage – Prevent condensation and wet nesting material with smart airflow and water drainage systems.
- Spacious interior – Ensure enough room for hibernation and nesting, especially when baby hedgehogs arrive.
All CJ Wildlife hedgehog houses are designed with these essentials in mind, offering durability and safety throughout the year.
Where and How to Place a Hedgehog House in Your Garden
Proper placement is key to making your hedgehog house a success. Follow these simple steps:
- Choose a quiet, shaded spot – Ideal locations include under bushes, behind hedges, or at the back of your garden—away from direct sunlight and rain.
- Avoid facing the entrance into the wind – Never point the entrance north or towards the prevailing wind in your area.
- Avoid wet areas – Place the house slightly raised or on legs to prevent flooding during heavy rain.
- Add nesting material – Fill the house with dry leaves, hay, or straw to make it inviting.
- Do not disturb – Avoid opening or moving the house if signs of occupancy are present.
Pro tip: Placing multiple houses increases your chances of attracting hedgehogs.
When Do Hedgehogs Use Their House?
Hedgehogs make use of their houses at different times throughout the year:
- Autumn and winter – During the cold months, hedgehogs hibernate safely in their shelter.
- Spring and summer – Female hedgehogs nest and raise their young, while others may use the house as a temporary hideaway during bad weather or danger.
Place the hedgehog house by September to give the animal time to get used to it before hibernation.
How to Maintain and Clean a Hedgehog House
Annual maintenance ensures the house stays safe and hygienic. Here's how to do it properly:
- Clean only outside the usage season – Late March or early April is ideal, once hibernation has ended.
- Use natural cleaning products – Avoid harsh chemicals. Use warm water or a mild soapy solution.
- Inspect for damage – Check and repair loose panels, assess the wood condition, and make sure the house remains stable.
- Replace bedding – Refresh with clean, dry nesting material; hedgehogs appreciate a tidy home just as much as we do!
Extra Tips for a Hedgehog-Friendly Garden
A hedgehog house is just the first step. Combine it with other eco-friendly practices for a truly hedgehog-friendly garden:
- Create access routes – Cut 13x13 cm holes in fences or hedges to allow hedgehogs to roam. Coordinating with neighbours increases impact. Have a fence? Install a hedgehog highway gate.
- Provide water – Offer a shallow dish of water, especially during dry spells. Hedgehogs get thirsty after nightly foraging.
- Feed responsibly – Use only specialist hedgehog food. Avoid milk and bread, which can be harmful. Explore our hedgehog food range.
- Avoid chemicals – Never use slug pellets or chemical pesticides.
- Boost biodiversity – Plant native shrubs, use organic plants, leave a wild patch, or add a hedgehog feeding station.
Hedgehog Houses tested in collaboration with Green Partners
CJ Wildlife’s hedgehog houses are developed in close collaboration with experts from the Dutch Hedgehog Protection Society. Each model is thoroughly tested for safety, durability, and comfort. Together, we’re improving hedgehog housing standards and supporting research and awareness initiatives.
Plus, CJ Wildlife donates a portion of its annual profits to concrete projects aimed at protecting hedgehogs and their habitats. Your purchase directly contributes to a brighter future for Britain’s hedgehogs.
Shop the Best Hedgehog Houses for Your Garden
Explore CJ Wildlife’s full range of safe, smart, and sustainable hedgehog houses. Need help choosing? Our customer service team and hedgehog experts are here to assist you!
