Do you have a pet hedgehog? If so, you may be wondering when they hibernate and the steps necessary to ensure the safety of your prickly pal. There is much more to understand about hedgehogs that don’t come along with their usual care instructions – such as when they slow down for winter.
Winter hibernation can become tricky if not handled properly, and it’s important to make sure your pet covers all its needs for it to emerge come spring safely. All these topics will be covered in today’s post!
What months do hedgehogs hibernate?
Hedgehogs are adorably spiny little creatures that know when it’s time to hunker down and recharge their batteries. Although these animals are considered active year-round, depending on the species and geography, many North American hedgehogs will hibernate for about six months out of the year.
They usually start their slumber cycle in October and remain well tucked in until roughly March or April. During this period, they typically don’t need to be fed because they rely on fat reserves stored before hibernating. In certain cases, hedgehogs might even remain to snooze through late May and into early June! Who knew such cuddly critters were so great at conserving energy?
How do you know when a hedgehog is going into hibernation?
The telltale sign of a hedgehog getting ready to hibernate becomes more obvious as winter approaches. One surefire way to tell that your pet hedgehog is getting ready for a much-needed winter break is by noticing weight gain. Hedgehogs will start to put on some extra weight in preparation for the long dormancy ahead.
Additionally, as the winter air becomes chillier and dryer, hedgehogs will typically become less active and more lethargic in their daily activities which may also be an indication that something’s brewing in their little brains about snoozing for months at a time. As temperatures drop further, those cute and prickly creatures will pull back into their defensiveness, pointing to their need to get into hibernation mode soon.
At what temperature does a hedgehog hibernate?
When hedgehogs hibernate, their bodies practice a process called “torpor.” This is basically when their bodies significantly reduce their metabolism and they lower their body temperatures to near freezing. Hedgehogs typically hibernate when the temperature drops close to 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
At this temperature, hedgehogs will slow down their respiration and heart rate, go into a deep slumber, and remain in torpor until the warmer climate of spring arrives. It’s amazing how quickly these animals can prepare for hibernation when the temperature starts to drop!
What triggers hibernation in hedgehogs?
Hedgehogs are one of the few animals that hibernate to survive winter. But what triggers this process? Many factors contribute to a hedgehog’s decision to enter winter dormancy, including temperature, food resources, and hours of daylight. As the climate cools, a hedgehog’s metabolism slows down and they become less active.
At the same time, their food sources become fewer and further making it difficult for them to sustain themselves. Finally, when days become shorter as fall approaches, there is not enough daylight for a hedgehog to gather enough energy from sunlight. When all these elements come together, the hedgehog instinctively begins their hibernation period until spring returns with warmer weather and abundant food supplies.
Do indoor hedgehogs hibernate?
Hedgehogs are adorable, so it’s no wonder why you might want to get one as a pet! But, that comes with its own set of questions – do they hibernate during the cold winter months? Well, if your hedgehog is kept indoors year-round it will not go into hibernation. For pet hedgehogs kept in temperature-controlled environments, the need to hibernate simply dissipates because their physical and environmental needs are easily met.
If a pet hedgehog were kept outside, however, you would need to look into providing housing that maintains warm temperatures during winter months if you want to avoid your little friend entering a state of hibernation. Regardless of whether or not they enter hibernation during winter months, we still recommend spoiling them with lots of cuddles and love whenever possible!
Should I let my hedgehog hibernate?
If you’ve got a happy, healthy hedgehog who was born in the wild, then it might be a good idea to mentor their natural hibernation process. However, many experts suggest that pet hedgehogs should not hibernate. Domestic hedgehogs can experience dangerous temperature changes and deep sleep if left to hibernate, which can disturb their delicate systems.
Remember that if your hedgehog’s circumstances had been different, they may have naturally chosen not to enter an extended hibernation anyway! You’ll need to assess whether the risk of hibernation is outperformed by the benefit of allowing them a more natural existence. Looking at things such as their diet and environment may help you make this decision.
How do hedgehogs act when they hibernate?
During winter, hedgehogs take part in a process known as hibernation. It’s an amazing sight to behold – these little spikey creatures tuck themselves away into a deep slumber for several months. To do this, they search for the perfect spot, often in piles of leaves or beneath logs on the ground.
Then, they curl up tightly and lower their body temperatures and heart rates so drastically that their metabolic processes slow down significantly. Amazingly, if disturbed during this time, the hedgehog can come back to full alertness before returning to hibernation mode again!
Conclusion
All in all, it is important to understand that when hedgehogs enter a period of hibernation, they are simply preparing their bodies and minds for the colder months ahead. No need to worry if you see your hedgehog snoozing away a lot! You can be sure that they are readying themselves for the winter.
It’s also worth noting that wild hedgehogs will usually hibernate during autumn and winter months, although captive ones may vary in habits depending on their environment and food supply. If you have more questions regarding your pet’s hibernation patterns, don’t hesitate to contact a veterinarian – they will be happy to help!
For now, just make sure to provide adequate warmth and safety when winter finally arrives for your prickly companion.
