Gardeners urged to put a saucer in the garden this week

Gardeners urged to put a saucer of water out for hedgehogs

After a summer of unusual heat and dryness, gardeners across the UK are being encouraged to do one simple thing to help wildlife recover: put a shallow dish or saucer of fresh, clean water in the garden. The advice comes as temperatures begin to cool but many animals may still be struggling with dehydration from the prolonged warm spell.

The call has been reported by several regional and national outlets, with many noting that Britain has endured an unusually scorching and dry summer, challenging for both people and wildlife. Even as the mercury starts to drop, hedgehogs and other creatures could still be suffering the after-effects of the long dry period.

The tip originates from outdoor furniture firm TDP, which has highlighted that hedgehogs face particular danger during elevated temperatures. According to the company, anything exceeding 26°C can become distressing for hedgehogs. Dehydration can be severe, leaving the animals feeling feeble and sluggish, and in serious instances they may collapse and go into shock.

Kym Barlow from TDP commented: "We've experienced an incredibly hot summer this year and while we've been outside enjoying ourselves, it's been tough for our wildlife."

"Just like us, they can experience dehydration, but the hot weather also puts a strain on their food sources, so they suffer a lot more."

"Helping them can be really simple, even leaving a shallow dish of water out can make a huge difference. Just make sure to change the water daily to get rid of any dirt, debris or harmful bacteria."

She also advised providing shade: "On sunny days try to provide some shade in your garden too. If you have a hedgehog house, move it into the shade. If not, you can create a shady spot by blocking the sunlight with some cardboard or other household materials."

How to help

Gardeners are encouraged to leave out a shallow dish or saucer filled with fresh, clean water. During particularly hot days, the water may need topping up several times. For those with a pond, it's crucial to ensure hedgehogs can safely exit the water should they fall in. Hedgehogs can drown in garden ponds while searching for a drink, so it's essential to position small ramps or stones that offer a secure escape route.

Why the risk persists

Although temperatures are beginning to drop, the prolonged spell of warm weather may have left hedgehogs and other wildlife still dealing with dehydration. TDP's advice, as carried in reports from the Daily Express and several other publications, emphasizes the continued need for water sources in gardens while the effects of the summer's heat linger.