NEST BOXES

Unfortunately many nest boxes labeled for hedgehogs are unsuitable and can be dangerous.

Most are too small and made from poor quality wood which offers no protection during the winter months.

Here are some points to look for when choosing a hedgehog nest box.

Space

A hedgehog needs adequate space to rest and hibernate properly.

They need a wide box which can fit 3 good sized loaves of bread and be deep enough to have a good depth of barley straw around them to keep them warm.

Baffle

A good nest box will have a baffle which is a little tunnel into the nest box to stop predators gaining entry.

Roof

The roof should be felted with a good overhang and be tilted so that rain water will drain off.

Feet

The nest box should have “feet” so that it is raised off the ground so that it is not in contact with the wet ground.

Ventilation

There should be plenty of ventilation so ensure there are holes in the back or a gap.

Good quality wood

The nest box should be made of thick wood to offer protection against frost.

The wood also needs to withstand wet weather.

If you paint the nest box only use a water based paint which is safe for animal use and never paint the inside.

To add more protection against the weather, stand the nest box on a patio slab and cover the roof with an old rubber car mat and place a brick on top.

Food & Water

Do NOT place food or water inside a nest box as it will attract predators and the hedgehog will not feel safe and will vacate from the nest box.

Always use a separate feeding station which should be place a good few metres away from the nest box.

Where to position the nest box?

Nest boxes need to be in the shade all year. They need to be placed in a sheltered secluded position ideally with the entrance facing a fence so that it deters predators.

Placing it amongst shrubs is ideal.

Preparing the nest box

We recommend you fill the nest box bedding area fully with dust extracted barley straw.

Really stuff the box full to the rafters.

Leaving a big plant pot on its side filled with barley straw next to the nest box is a good idea too as the hedgehog can then add more to the nest when needed.

Once the nest box is in position leave it alone and do not be tempted to lift the lid.

The best way to see if your nest box is being used is to put a twig in the entrance and if you noticed it has moved you will, know someone is in or out.

Better still set up a camera.

Cleaning the nest box

Cleaning the nest box isn’t really necessary as they will sort it out themselves but if you wanted to check it and change the bedding and give it a clean the best time is at the end of April when hibernation has usually ended and before the nesting season for babies begins.

Always use an animal safe disinfectant such as Johnsons Clean ‘n’ Safe spray.

Here is a video of a highly recommended hedgehog nest box