Hedgehog Haven Essex

Release Sites

We have hedgehogs that are fit to be released back into the wild, but cannot go back to the area they were found. This may be due to busy roads, unsafe ponds, use of slug pellets or badgers living close by. These hogs need 'safe gardens' in which they can be released into. It is important these gardens are not enclosed so that the hedgehog can eventually wander off to find a new home. You will however need to provide food and water for a few days until this happens.

If you think you would like to offer a safe release site to a hedgehog, please contact us using the details on the contacts page. Due to financial and staffing interests, we ask that anyone considering rehoming or releasing a hedgehog, lives within 10 miles of Colchester, Frinton or Witham.


Secure Release Sites

Sometimes at the Haven, we have hedgehogs who are nursed back to health, but cannot be released back into the wild. There are many reasons why this may be the case. Some may have only three legs, some may be blind, some may need that extra bit of help. If we believe the hedgehog may struggle if released back into the wild then we will not do so. Instead we advertise for people with safe and secure gardens who are happy to rehome our hogs.

Suitable gardens need to have gravel board foundations or a brick wall around the entire area, as Hedgehogs are good climbers and may be able to climb or dig under less secure fences. Gardens need to be at least 50ft square to allow the Hedgehog plenty of exercise, and be filled with grass, shrubs and wild areas for foraging. Garden ponds will either need to be covered or have ledges or pots enabling a safe escape should the hedgehog fall in. We also ask that you are located close to the Colchester or Frinton areas.

You will need to be able to provide a suitable nest box and fresh food and water everyday.