Give a hog a home

One of the citizen science projects that the Hedgehog Street campaign undertook was the Hedgehog Housing Census. I was sceptical as to the value of these structures – not helped by being shown hedgehogs ignoring them and creating nests against the lovingly built or bought houses! But I was wrong. The survey showed that hedgehogs really do use them, both bought and built – with a preference for built.

It can take a while for hedgehogs to start using nestboxes, so don’t be downhearted if you install one and it’s not immediately occupied. They are used more often in back gardens and in sheltered spots. Providing food (in the garden, not in the house) and bedding increases the chances of a hog moving in. Here are just three nestboxes worth considering.

1 HEDGEHOG HOME Wildlife World, £59.95

A top-of-the-range product, made from recycled plastic and FSC wood. Its design allows easy cleaning (if unoccupied in March–April) and the entry porch helps protect against disturbance. shop.britishhedgehogs.org.uk

2 HEDGEHOG HOUSE Coopers of Stortford, £29.99

This simple design includes an entry tunnel as well as a lid for easy access. It’s made from untreated Chinese fir wood and should be effective in keeping hedgehogs safe. coopersofstortford.co.uk

3 ECO-PLATE HEDGEHOG HOUSE CJ Wildlife, £49.99

Made from a material produced from recycled car seats, this is a hardy house that will keep hedgehogs nice and dry. The entrance tunnel is hidden within the design and helps deter predators. birdfood.co.uk