Understanding Hedgehog Nests: A Crucial Role for Artificial Homes

The sight of a hedgehog snuffling through the undergrowth is a joyful one, but behind that charming exterior lies a species facing significant challenges. European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) in the UK are now classified as vulnerable to extinction, with populations having suffered alarming declines in recent decades. Understanding their behaviour, particularly their nesting habits, is vital to their survival, and this is where human intervention, through providing artificial homes, can play a transformative role.

The Importance of a Good Nest

Hedgehogs are diligent nest-builders, creating different types of nests for different purposes throughout the year.

• Day Nests: During spring and summer, hedgehogs construct temporary "day nests" for resting and sleeping, often just a simple scrape in dense vegetation, under a bush, or within a log pile. These allow them to stay hidden and cool during daylight hours.
• Hibernacula (Winter Nests): As autumn progresses, hedgehogs turn their attention to building robust, insulated "hibernacula." These are crucial for surviving the cold winter months when food is scarce. A well-constructed hibernaculum, typically made from layers of leaves (oak, beech, and lime are favoured for their ability to interlock and trap air), dry grass, and other plant material, acts as a protective cocoon, helping the hedgehog maintain its body temperature during torpor.
• Maternity Nests: Perhaps the most critical nest type is the "maternity" or "nursery" nest. Female hedgehogs, once pregnant, will meticulously construct these secure and well-insulated nests to give birth and raise their young, known as hoglets. The main breeding season in the UK runs from April to September, with peak activity and births occurring in May, June, and July. A comfortable, undisturbed maternity nest is paramount for the survival of the hoglets, as disturbance can lead the mother to abandon or even consume her litter.

Natural nesting sites typically include compost heaps, dense bramble patches, log piles, under sheds or decking, and at the base of thick hedgerows. These provide the necessary shelter and materials for a hedgehog to weave its intricate nest.

The Rise of Artificial Hedgehog Houses

With increasing urbanisation and a trend towards tidier gardens, natural nesting sites are becoming scarcer. This is where man-made hedgehog houses, also known as "nest boxes" or "hibernacula," step in as crucial conservation tools.

These artificial structures are designed to replicate the safe, sheltered conditions of a natural nest. They are typically made from durable, natural materials like FSC-certified timber, sometimes with added insulation, and often feature a baffled entrance tunnel to deter predators.

BUT DO HEDGEHOGS ACTUALLY USE THEM? The answer is a resounding YES! Research, notably the Hedgehog Housing Census conducted by the People's Trust for Endangered Species (PTES) and British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS), has provided valuable insights into the effectiveness of these artificial homes.

According to a paper published by Abi Gazzard and Philip Baker (funded by PTES and BHPS), based on over 4,300 responses from UK residents:

• 81% of survey respondents found that hedgehogs used their artificial houses for summer day nesting.
• 59% reported use for hibernation.
• And crucially, 28% confirmed usage for breeding.

While hedgehogs still show a preference for natural sites when available, the data clearly indicates that artificial houses are a highly valuable alternative. The study also highlighted factors that significantly increase the likelihood of a house being used:

• Longevity of installation: The longer a house has been in place, the more likely a hedgehog is to discover and adopt it.
• Connectivity: Gardens with good access between front and back areas, often facilitated by "hedgehog highways" (small gaps in fences), saw higher occupancy rates.
• Supplementary resources: Providing additional food and dry bedding materials (like straw or leaves) nearby strongly encouraged use.
• Location: Sheltered spots, away from open areas and facing away from prevailing winds, were preferred.

The use of materials that mimic natural nesting substrates, such as sea grass or straw, can also be particularly appealing, as hedgehogs are instinctively drawn to these for building their cosy retreats.

Becoming a Hedgehog Champion

By understanding the vital role of nests and the effectiveness of artificial houses, you can become a crucial part of hedgehog conservation. Providing a well-made and properly sited hedgehog house, along with ensuring your garden is hedgehog-friendly (e.g., leaving wild corners, avoiding pesticides, providing water), offers these endangered animals a much-needed lifeline. Whether you use an artificial nesting bos or not, if you love hedgehogs, we recommend joining Hedgehog Street and become a Hedgehog Champion in your neighbourhood..