The return of spring heralds the awakening of the hedgehogs, those charming insectivores who emerge from their hibernation to roam our gardens. But what can you do, and what do you need to know, if you’re lucky enough to have these prickly little visitors at home?
In this article, we offer a detailed focus on hedgehogs in your garden. Coming across a hedgehog in your green space, it’s essential to respect their wild nature by giving them the space they need to go about their business without disturbing them. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of these prickly balls.
Hedgehog lifespan and diet
Hedgehogs have an average lifespan of approx. 3 to 7 years in the wildbut can live up to 10 years in captivity. Their diet consists mainly of insects, worms, snails and sometimes small mammals.
They are nocturnal animals, which means they hunt mainly at night. Understanding hedgehogs’ lifespan and diet is essential if we are to meet their specific needs in captivity, particularly in terms of food and environment.
The main dangers for hedgehogs
Hedgehogs face many dangers that threaten their population. One of the greatest risks to these small mammals is road trafficwhere many hedgehogs unfortunately fall victim to accidents.
In addition, exposure to pesticides used in agriculture can also have a devastating impact on hedgehogs by poisoning them. These threats have a direct effect on the hedgehog population, contributing to an their numbers and jeopardizing their survival in the long term. It is therefore crucial to raise public awareness of these dangers and take action to protect these adorable creatures.
The importance of hedgehogs in the fight against garden pests
Hedgehogs play a crucial role in pest control in the garden, particularly when it comes to slugs. In fact, hedgehogs are formidable predators of these small molluscs. which can cause serious damage to plants. Thanks to their varied diet, hedgehogs like to feed on slugs, thus contributing to the protection of plants. regulate their population naturally.
Their presence in a garden can therefore be beneficial for gardeners wishing to protect their crops without resorting to chemicals that are harmful to the environment. Encouraging them to take up residence in your garden can therefore be a great way to protect your crops. ecological and effective solution for pest control.
In addition, hedgehogs are indicators of the health of our environment. Their presence or absence in a garden can reveal crucial information about the quality of the local ecosystem, including the availability of food and suitable habitats.
By carefully observing hedgehog behaviour and creating favourable conditions for their settlement, gardeners can actively contribute to the protection of the environment. preservation of local fauna and biodiversity. So, welcoming these little prickly balls into our gardens goes far beyond the aesthetic aspect; it’s a concrete gesture in favor of the environment and the health of our ecosystems.
