Hedgehogs were introduced to Jersey in the middle of the 19th century, around the same time as red squirrels. They have no natural predators in Jersey, as there are no badgers or foxes on the Island, but there are still many hazards for them to face.
Rats, feral ferrets and dogs may attack them and even kill them. Cats will only pose a threat to very young hedgehogs before they are independent of the mother.
Other hazards which hedgehogs may encounter include:
- litter - hedgehogs can get trapped in plastic bags, dustbin liners, crisp packets, 4 pack rings, polystyrene cups etc
- garden and agricultural machinery especially around branchage time
- swimming pools
- traffic
When do hedgehogs breed?
The breeding season in Jersey runs from May to the end of October.
What weight do hedgehogs need to be to hibernate?
After the end of November, any young hedgehog which has not reached a safe weight for hibernation (450g) may not survive the winter in the wild.
Jersey Hedgehog Preservation Group
The Jersey Hedgehog Preservation Group was formed in 1992 to care for any sick, injured or orphaned hedgehogs found in Jersey by members of the public. Hedgehogs are treated under the guidance and supervision of a local veterinary surgery. Once they are fit, they are released back into the wild as near to the place where they were found. They also have a tagging system for hedgehogs which helps with their general research.
Jersey Hedgehog Preservation Group
White Lodge
Waterworks Valley
St Helier
Jersey
Channel Islands
+44 (0) 1534 734340
Jersey Hedgehog Preservation Group website
gov.je