This photo was taken after moving a pile of straw, needless to say the straw was put back and that part of the plot left undisturbed until we were sure the hedgehogs had gone. Always move piles of compost, allotment rubbish etc carefully many animals consider piles such as these to be ideal winter hideaways or nesting sites. Never set light to a bonfire that has been left in situ, move the materials to a new site and then burn.

When the straw was removed the young hoglets squealed really loudly but the mother never moved.

Most baby hedgehogs are born in June or July. At birth the spines are covered in skin and look something like small pimples. A  minute or two after birth pure white spines are apparent. Gradually brown spines grow up among the white ones. After about 15 days after birth the white spines are barely visible. Baby hedgehogs are born blind and do not open their eyes until they are two weeks old so it would appear that the babies that we found were less than two weeks old. At three to four weeks old the babies are able to leave the nest but often return.  

The video below was taken October 2008.

Below is a video of a couple of baby hedghogs exploring under bird feeders in our garden September 2009

Cedar Hedgehog Habitat   Attract a new best friend to the garden with this durable Cedar Hedgehog Habitat. The waterproof and insulated roof will keep you slug-devouring buddy warm and dry throughout the harsh winter months, and he'll repay you come spring when he's hungry! Position the winter retreat with the entrance away prevailing winds and choose a sheltered, quiet part of the garden. Complete with an integral tunnel and large inspection lid for checking with minimal disturbance and hedgehogs can hibernate in comfort, protected by the predator proof entrance.   Click here