Hedgehog Food

On this page, learn how to offer the right food for hedgehogs and create a safe, welcoming environment for them in your outdoor space.

Why feed hedgehogs?

Hedgehogs play a vital role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem. They are natural pest controllers, feeding on insects, slugs, and snails that can otherwise damage your plants. However, due to habitat loss and other environmental factors, hedgehogs often struggle to find enough food.

Providing a reliable source of hedgehog food can:

• Help hedgehogs build up energy for hibernation in autumn.
• Support nursing mothers and young hedgehogs in spring and summer.
• Reduce their need to cross dangerous roads in search of food.

By feeding hedgehogs, you’re not only helping them but also supporting the overall health of your garden.

What do hedgehogs eat?

Hedgehogs are omnivores, meaning they eat both animal- and plant-based foods. Their diet in the wild includes insects, worms, and fruits. When feeding hedgehogs in your garden, offer:

• Specialized hedgehog food: Formulated to meet their nutritional needs, these mixes often include protein-rich ingredients and essential vitamins.
• Wet cat or dog food: Choose high-quality options with a high meat content (chicken or turkey). Avoid fish-flavored varieties.
• Dry cat biscuits: These are an excellent source of protein and help keep their teeth healthy.

Avoid giving hedgehogs milk, bread, or processed human food, as these can upset their stomachs and harm their health. Fresh water is essential, especially during hot or dry weather.

Benefits of offering hedgehog food

Adding hedgehog food to your garden benefits both the hedgehogs and your outdoor environment. Here’s why:

• Supports declining populations: Hedgehogs are in decline in many areas and providing food helps them survive and thrive.
• Reduces garden pests naturally: A well-fed hedgehog will help control slugs, snails, and other pests.
• Enhances biodiversity: Hedgehogs are part of a healthy ecosystem and encouraging their presence increases your garden’s wildlife diversity.

Where to place hedgehog food?

To make feeding hedgehogs as safe as possible, choose a quiet, sheltered spot in your garden. Place the food near areas where hedgehogs are likely to roam, such as hedges, shrubs, or compost heaps. Use a low, covered feeding station to keep the food dry and prevent other animals, like cats or foxes, from eating it.

Tips for feeding hedgehogs responsibly

When feeding hedgehogs, it’s important to do so responsibly to avoid harm or dependency:

• Feed in moderation: Provide enough food to help hedgehogs but not so much that they rely solely on your supply.
• Clean regularly: Remove uneaten food and clean feeding stations to prevent the spread of disease.
• Monitor for visitors: Keep an eye out for hedgehogs and make adjustments if you notice other animals taking the food.

Explore CJ Wildlife’s hedgehog food selection

CJ Wildlife offers a range of specially formulated hedgehog food to meet the needs of these wonderful creatures. Our products include:

• Premium hedgehog food: Rich in protein and designed for optimal nutrition.
• Hedgehog-friendly snacks: Including mealworms and other high-energy treats.

With CJ Wildlife’s hedgehog food, you can ensure that your prickly visitors receive the nourishment they need to stay healthy and active.

Create a hedgehog-friendly garden with CJ Wildlife

Support your local wildlife by adding hedgehog food and a feeding station to your garden. Browse CJ Wildlife’s range of high-quality hedgehog products and start creating a safe, welcoming haven for these delightful creatures today.