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The hedgehog in Switzerland

Biology and behavior

The brown-breasted hedgehog, a common mammal in Switzerland, fascinates not only with its characteristic appearance, but also with its diverse behavior and biological characteristics. Here are more details about its biology and behavior:
Mass of the hedgehog
The brown-breasted hedgehog, scientifically known as Erinaceus europaeus, is native to Switzerland. It has an average body length of around 20 to 30 centimetres, whereby the females are often somewhat smaller than the males. Their weight varies greatly depending on the season and access to food and is usually between 800 and 1500 grams. Young animals born in spring only weigh around 10 to 25 grams at birth and are completely helpless.
As insectivores, beetles and worms play a crucial role in the hedgehog’s diet. Their keen senses enable them to locate prey even in the dark. In addition to insects, they can also hunt small vertebrates such as mice, lizards and frogs. Their versatile feeding behavior makes them important regulators in the ecosystem, as they fight pests and maintain the balance at the same time.
The mating season of hedgehogs, which begins in late spring, is a fascinating process characterized by ritualized behaviour. The males sometimes fight for the favor of the females, and the mating itself can last several hours. After a gestation period of around 35 days, the female usually gives birth to four to six blind and naked young. These are completely dependent on their mother’s care and only leave the nest after about six weeks.

The hibernation of the hedgehog is a remarkable phenomenon. During the cold winter months, hedgehogs retreat into their nests and significantly reduce their body temperature to conserve energy. During this time, they shut down their metabolism and sleep most of the time. Their hibernation usually begins in November and ends in March, but can vary depending on weather conditions.

Hedgehogs are susceptible to various diseases and parasite infestations, including lungworms and ticks. Human activities such as road traffic and gardening also pose a threat. Many hedgehogs die every year due to injuries caused by cars or mowing machines. To protect the population, it is important to preserve habitats and provide safe crossings for hedgehogs.

Habitat

Garden
The brown-chested hedgehog is a frequent visitor to gardens, especially those with diverse vegetation and structure. It feels at home in gardens that offer plenty of hiding places, such as dense shrubs, hedges and piles of leaves. Untouched corners and compost heaps are also attractive habitats for hedgehogs. In urban areas, green spaces, parks and cemeteries are important retreats for these animals.
During the day, hedgehogs like to rest in sheltered places such as under dense bushes, piles of wood or even under garden sheds. Some hedgehogs also prefer the inside of old tree stumps or hollow tree trunks as a place to sleep. They like to use existing natural cavities to protect themselves from predators and bad weather.
Hedgehogs are insectivores and feed mainly on insects such as beetles, snails, worms and other invertebrates. They like to search the leaf litter and ground for food, using their sensitive nose to sniff out potential prey. In addition, they occasionally eat small vertebrates such as mice, lizards or even young birds. In late summer, when ripe fruit gathers on the ground, a hungry hedgehog may eat it, but this is not the hedgehog’s natural diet and in most cases leads to diarrhea.

Threats to the brown-breasted hedgehog in Switzerland

Mowers
Lawn mowers and other garden tools can pose a serious threat to hedgehogs, especially during the warmer months when they are active. Hedgehogs often hide in tall grass or dense bushes to sleep during the day. If a lawnmower is switched on, they can be overlooked and seriously injured or killed.
Open fires such as campfires or unattended barbecues can be dangerous for hedgehogs. As hedgehogs forage for food at night, they could hide near such fireplaces and be accidentally injured if the fire is lit. Open water sources such as swimming pools, ponds or rain barrels are also potential danger spots. Hedgehogs could fall in and have difficulty getting out again due to a lack of exit options, which can lead to drowning.
Traps set for pest control can also catch hedgehogs and cause them serious injury. Live traps in particular can be problematic as hedgehogs can be lured into them and remain trapped without food or water. Fences, especially those with narrow bars or sharp edges, can cause hedgehogs to become entangled or injured when they try to get through them.
The use of poisons such as slug pellets or other pesticides in gardens can be fatal to hedgehogs. Hedgehogs are insectivores and may accidentally eat poisoned snails or insects, which can lead to poisoning. The effects of pesticides can also be long-term and affect the health of hedgehog populations.
Litter, especially plastic and other waste, can pose a threat to hedgehogs. They could become entangled in it or accidentally eat plastic bags or foil, which can lead to internal injury, suffocation or starvation. It is important to keep the garden clean and dispose of waste properly to minimize the risk to wildlife.

Useful knowledge for the protection of the brown-breasted hedgehog

Shelters for hedgehogs
Providing shelter in the garden can help to improve the habitat for hedgehogs. These include piles of leaves or brushwood, woodpiles, piles of stones or special hedgehog houses. These offer protection from the weather and enemies and are important resting places for hedgehogs.
Understanding how hedgehogs hibernate can help us to better understand their needs and avoid disturbing them during this time. Like hedgehogs, humans also need periods of rest to regenerate and recharge their batteries.
Raising hoglets requires special knowledge and care. Baby hedgehogs should only be reared by humans if they are orphaned or the mother is no longer able to look after them. Species-appropriate rearing requires appropriate housing, warmth, hygiene and a suitable diet.
Hedgehogs in need of help may require targeted nutritional support to improve their health. This includes high-quality hedgehog food, cat food or special build-up supplements that cover the nutritional requirements and can contribute to weight gain.
Caring for hedgehogs in need of help requires patience, commitment and expertise. This includes regular health monitoring, treating injuries or illnesses, cleaning the habitat and providing appropriate care and attention.
The release of hedgehogs into the wild should be carefully planned and carried out to ensure that the animals are optimally prepared for life in the wild. This includes selecting a suitable release site, checking the hedgehog’s health and fitness and gradually acclimatizing it to its natural environment. After release, it is important to continue to follow the hedgehogs and offer support if necessary.

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