Like the rest of us, hedgehogs prefer warm, dry weather.
After a little research on the internet, I found out that hedgehogs don't like the rain. They shelter from it. Discuss the reasons animals need shelter with the children. Look at the objective- to make a roof for an open shoe box and to see which roof can keep the most water from the 'hedgehog'.
Hedgehogs are pretty good swimmers. In his book Hedgehogs, Pat Morris records them swimming for over half a mile, crossing rivers and swimming to the middle of lakes.
It might be that a hedgehog has just gone somewhere else to find food for a little while. Also hedgehogs can wake from hibernation if disturbed or the weather conditions change, so they might be about looking for food when the ground is frozen and easy meals are hard to come by.
Feeding hedgehogs
You can encourage hedgehogs into your garden by providing food and fresh water.
Water Bowls
Baby hedgehogs or hedgehogs that have difficulty using a bottle may do better with a water bowl. Some hedgehog owners prefer using glass or stainless steel bowls for drinking. Water bowls will need to be checked frequently to make sure they are clean and full.
March. Hedgehogs will begin to emerge from hibernation, having potentially lost 1/3 of their body weight during their rest. This is the perfect time to start putting out supplementary food and water as they will be extremely thirsty and hungry.
A hedgehog's go-to vocal is huffing and puffing, but he's not trying to blow the house down. This sniffing is a normal vocalization he makes while going about his business of exploring. An unhappy hedgehog, on the other hand, will show his disdain with a hiss or a clicking sound.
Remember that hedgehogs are primarily nocturnal, so you will see them sleeping a lot. Hedgehogs sleep away 95% of the day and night. Don't worry, this is perfectly normal. In the beginning, your hedgehog might not come out to play while the lights are on or while you are awake.
Like many pocket pets, hedgehogs love to explore mazes and tunnels. This will keep Hedgie active, and offer him mental stimulation. You can buy labyrinths, or make your own out of shoeboxes or PVC pipe. To make your pet's explorations even more fun for him, hide a snack at the end of the tunnel.
Hedgies are very curious and active little pets, so your little one will need lots of toys. Playing will keep Hedgie from getting bored, and also keep him moving. Chew toys, balls, and bells are a few cute playtime options. You can also give your hedgehog toys made for cats and birds.
Dr. Keller says, “With appropriate care and keeping, your hedgehog will live about five years, and some even live longer than eight years.” If you have any questions about hedgehogs, contact your local veterinarian.
Like the rest of us, hedgehogs prefer warm, dry weather.
Hedgehogs need environmental temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees. Keep your hedgehog's cage away from drafts, direct sunlight, or cold areas. You may want to provide your hedgehog with a small warm spot in his cage where he can go to get warm but would also be able to get away from if he feels too warm.
Hedgehogs are nocturnal, which means they shouldn't really be seen out in daylight hours. Some of the exceptions to this are pregnant females gathering nesting materials just before she gives birth, or a new 'Mum' taking a break from the nest to get food and water while her young sleep.
Depression. Without room, a hedgehog will show signs of depression, such as excessive sleeping, refusal to eat, repetitious behaviour, and self mutilation.
Many hedgehogs are busy and want to try to explore but a stressed hedgehog will be much more persistent and not easily distracted. The stressed hedgehog may also twitch or shake its head nervously. It is almost as if the hedgehog is saying “Sensory overload. I can't take it anymore.”
Hissing like a Snake
Keep your distance from a hissing hedgehog, just like you would from a hissing snake. When a hedgehog hisses, it means he is really annoyed and wants you, other hogs or other animals to clear off.
Long-term elevated stress levels, as in humans, can have serious physiological consequences for hedgehogs. The higher level of stress shows that being handled and placed in captivity can cause long-term stress in the animals. This highlights the importance of periods of captivity being as short as possible.
One of the best and easiest ways to bond with your hedgehog is to simply hold your hedgehog on your lap for an hour or so while watching television or a movie. Don't attempt to pet a shy hedgehog simply relax and come out on its own.
Tea Tree oil/ Eucalyptus/Thieves - this includes: tea tree shampoo, tea tree oil, tea tree sprays and anything tea tree. Even Candles inhaled can harm your hedgehog!
Hedgehogs should be bathed in warm water for their comfort. The water should be warm to the touch without being scalding.
How Can You Help? Even those with the smallest garden can help keep a hedgehog hydrated! Just place a bowl or saucer of fresh water out every evening to be visited by thirsty hedgehogs. It's also a good idea to put out some wet cat or dog food to compensate for the lack of natural food available.
Many people get confused about how often they should bathe their hedgehogs. Your vet should be the ultimate authority here. That said, in general, about once a month is good. Don't bathe your pet too often: this could dry out his skin!