Hibernation

While the snow continues to fall here in the Lake District, some of our wildlife, such as bats, dormice and squirrels, are tucked away and hibernating. During the hibernation period these winter animals will slow down their breathing, lower their temperature and their metabolic rates. Hibernation can last several days or weeks depending on the time of year, temperatures and species.



One species in particular, the hedgehog will hibernate at this time of year, if it is fit and fat enough to do so. A hedgehog has to weight 500 to 600 grammes to hibernate successfully; this will ensure they have enough fat reserves to see them through. The older the hedgehog, the heavier they need to weigh. During this snowy period, it is likely they will hibernate for longer as their natural foods such as slugs, beetles, caterpillars and snails disappear or become very difficult to find. The general period of hibernation is from November to March, although some larger hedgehogs have been known to start as early as September.


Many of us here in Cumbria may have garden hedgehogs that may wake up several times during hibernation. Therefore, it is a good idea to offer food and water if and when you see one. If you see hedgehogs out and about during this cold period on a regular basis or for long periods of time, make sure they are showing no signs of obvious problems If you are unsure contact the British Hedgehog Preservation Society who may be able to help. Ill Hedgehogs often show signs of lethargy or staggering.
Hedgehogs often hibernate under hedges, tree roots, brushwood piles, inside compost heaps, old rabbit burrows and underneath sheds. While it is relatively easy to view from a distance, be careful not to disturb hibernating hedgehogs. A hedgehog nest itself can look rather messy and tangled, but it is well constructed from dry leaves, grass and other vegetation. The nest can be up to 20 inches thick! During hibernation, they are immobile and therefore vulnerable to climate and disturbance and so their nests are important to their survival and must not be damaged or disturbed in any way.

Hibernation for hedgehogs isn’t always necessary, as those living in warmer climates have been observed to manage well without it. But here in snowy Cumbria our hedgehog friends will be tucked away until the snow disappears and the temperatures rise.