How to help hibernating wildlife this Spring
Britons are being offered advice on helping wildlife coming out of hibernation this spring.
The experts atĀ GardenBuildingsDirect.co.ukĀ have put together their tips to help those who have played host to hibernating hedgehogs and dormice in their sheds and outbuildings.
Hedgehogs and dormice will seek out warm shelter during hibernation, makingĀ shedsĀ and summerhouses a comfortable space to spend the winter.
Other favoured spots include compost heaps, log and leaf piles, under hedges, hedgehog houses, tree cavities and for dormice, roof spaces.
Hibernating species normally return to full activity around March and April although that is dependent on the weather conditions.
But when they first come out of hibernation, they’re likely to be disorientated and uncertain of their surroundings.
Adding a food supply and fresh water will help the animals rebuild fat reserves and creating exit routes will allow them to roam when they’re ready.
A spokesperson forĀ GardenBuildingsDirect.co.ukĀ said: “If you’ve had a winter visitor in your shed, outbuilding or hibernating under compost or a pile of leaves, now’s the time to think about what you can do to help them coming out of hibernation.
“Allowing them to rest and to not disturb is important and when they do wake up, be aware they may be wobbly and disorientated. Leaving out food and water is vital to help them rebuild fat and energy reserves.
“Think too about setting out an exit route to allow them to roam freely between gardens. If they do appear injured or unwell contact a wildlife rescue centre and get your winter visitor checked over.”
Here areĀ GardenBuildingDirect.co.uk’s tips for helping wildlife coming out of hibernation:
Do not disturb
Let hibernating hedgehogs and dormice wake up naturally, do not disturb them. Hibernation is vital for their survival and disturbing them uses up energy they may be unable to replace. If you do accidentally disturb cover up and leave
Leave out food and water
Make sure you leave out food and there’s an available supply of water. Offer meaty cat or dog food in the form of dry biscuits. This can be left on a saucer in an accessible and easy to reach spot. Place a saucer or shallow dish of fresh water too.
Natural food sources
Having a natural source of food for wildlife coming out of hibernation is important, especially if you get returning visitors every winter. Add native plants to your garden design which will encourage insects.
Exit route
Think about creating an exit path for your winter visitors. Leaving the shed or summerhouse door open at night means they can leave when they’re ready. Consider creating gaps in fences and hedges to allow them to move easily between gardens.
Check for injuries
Hedgehogs can be wobbly and disorientated post hibernation, but if your winter visitor seems unwell or injured when they come out of hibernation, contact a wildlife rescue centre to get them checked out.
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