Hedgehogs and pest control go hand in hand. These spiky garden visitors are not only cute but also a helpful ally in keeping unwanted bugs at bay. If you want fewer slugs, snails, and beetles without using chemicals, hedgehogs can help. In this guide, you’ll learn how to attract hedgehogs to your garden and why they’re one of the best natural pest control options in the UK.
Why Hedgehogs Help with Pest Control
Hedgehogs eat many of the pests that damage your garden, including slugs, snails, caterpillars, and beetles. These insects harm your plants, flowers, and vegetable patches. Encouraging hedgehogs into your garden helps reduce pests naturally and without using toxic products.
How to Attract Hedgehogs to Your Garden
Making your garden hedgehog-friendly is simple. Start by creating “hedgehog highways” – small 13cm x 13cm holes in fences to let them pass between gardens.
Add piles of leaves or logs in a quiet corner, which provide perfect shelter and nesting spots. Hedgehogs also need water, so leaving out a shallow dish can help. You can feed them cat or dog biscuits, but never give milk or bread. Avoid using slug pellets, which can poison both pests and hedgehogs.
Do Hedgehogs Attract Pests?
No – hedgehogs do not attract pests. In fact, they reduce them. The only caution is to avoid leaving out uneaten food overnight, as this can attract rats. Feed hedgehogs responsibly, clean up leftover food in the morning, and you’ll enjoy a balanced garden ecosystem.
Benefits of Hedgehogs in the Garden
Fewer pests mean healthier plants and lawns. You’ll also be helping British wildlife, as hedgehogs are in decline across the UK. Children and adults alike enjoy spotting them, and your garden will be safer without chemical treatments. Natural pest control is good for the environment, your garden, and local animals.
Related Reading
If you’re struggling with persistent pests, you may also want to read our guide on identifying common garden pests. For serious infestations, our professional pest control services can help.
Final Thought
Hedgehogs and pest control are the perfect combination for nature lovers and gardeners. By making a few simple changes, you can enjoy a pest-free garden and help protect one of Britain’s favourite animals.
Contact us today for help- and advice.