Egels are often on the hunt for food in the autumn months, as they prepare for hibernation during the winter. You can help them out by providing them with some extra nourishment. Feeding hedgehogs is a common practice and can be a rewarding experience for both you and the little spiky creatures. However, it’s important to know what foods are safe and healthy for them to eat. In this article, we’ll discuss what you should and shouldn’t feed hedgehogs, as well as some tips for attracting them to your garden.
Safe Foods for Hedgehogs
There are several foods that are safe for hedgehogs to eat and can help supplement their diet. Some of the best options include:
– Wet or dry cat food: This is a popular choice for feeding hedgehogs, as it provides them with a good source of protein. Look for high-quality cat food with a high meat content and avoid anything with fish flavors.
– Raw meat: Hedgehogs are omnivores and can eat small amounts of raw meat, such as cooked chicken or turkey. Make sure to cut the meat into small pieces to prevent choking.
– Mealworms: These are a favorite treat for hedgehogs and can be found in pet stores or online. They are high in protein and are a great source of energy for these little creatures.
– Fruits and vegetables: Hedgehogs can also eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, such as apples, pears, carrots, and peas. Make sure to cut them into small pieces and remove any seeds or pits.
– Hedgehog food: You can also purchase specially formulated hedgehog food from pet stores, which is designed to meet their nutritional needs.
Foods to Avoid
While there are many safe options for feeding hedgehogs, there are also some foods that should be avoided. These include:
– Milk: Hedgehogs are lactose intolerant and can have trouble digesting dairy products. Avoid giving them milk or any other dairy-based foods.
– Bread and other carbohydrates: While hedgehogs can eat small amounts of bread, pasta, or rice, these foods offer little nutritional value and can fill them up without providing essential nutrients.
– Sugary foods: Hedgehogs should avoid sugary treats like chocolate, candy, or sugary fruits. These can lead to obesity and other health issues.
– Processed foods: Stay away from processed foods like chips, crackers, or fast food. These foods are high in salt and unhealthy fats, which can be harmful to hedgehogs.
– Raw peanuts: While peanuts are safe for hedgehogs to eat, raw peanuts can contain a fungus that is toxic to them. Make sure to only give them roasted, unsalted peanuts.
Tips for Attracting Hedgehogs
If you want to attract hedgehogs to your garden, there are a few things you can do to make it more appealing to them. Here are some tips:
– Create a hedgehog-friendly environment: Provide shelter for hedgehogs by leaving piles of leaves, logs, or branches for them to hide in. You can also build a hedgehog house or buy one online.
– Provide access to water: Hedgehogs need access to fresh water, so make sure to leave out a shallow dish or bowl for them to drink from.
– Avoid using pesticides: Hedgehogs are natural pest controllers and eat insects like slugs and snails. Avoid using pesticides in your garden, as these can harm hedgehogs and other wildlife.
– Install a hedgehog highway: Hedgehogs need to roam freely in search of food and mates. Create a hole in your fence or install a hedgehog tunnel to allow them to pass through.
Feeding hedgehogs can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to know what foods are safe for them to eat. By following these guidelines and tips, you can help support the local hedgehog population and create a welcoming environment for these adorable creatures in your garden.
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