Kartierungsbüro Hintsche GmbH
Hedgehogs:
Two species live in Europe: the West European or common hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) and the East European or northern white-breasted hedgehog (Erinaceus roumanicus). In Germany only the West European hedgehog s normally found. The East European hedgehog is considered extinct in Germany. Only rarely are abandoned white-breasted hedgehogs or African white-bellied hedgehogs (Atelerix albiventris), which are occasionally kept as pets, found. Hedgehogs belong to the mammalian order of insectivores (Eulipotyphla). Insects also form the main part of the hedgehog’s diet. However, they also eat millipedes, earthworms, small vertebrates and occasionally snails.
Preparation of
the hedgehog hibernation
house
Vulnerability:
Unfortunately, the hedgehog population is not doing well, so that it is now on the pre-warning list (potentially endangered) of the Bavarian and German Red Lists. Many hedgehogs are victims of road traffic. As gardens today are often surrounded by walls and fences that no longer have any gaps for hedgehogs, they have to undertake long hikes and cross many traffic routes before they find suitable shelter. The traffic network has also become denser over the years, increasing the risk of collision for hedgehogs. Another danger is posed by robotic mowers, which can cause serious injuries to hedgehogs. Finally, the sharp decline in insects also has a negative impact on hedgehogs. Many hedgehogs do not find enough food until winter to build up sufficient fat reserves. Because we humans also keep our gardens free of leaves etc., it is also difficult for hedgehogs to find suitable places to hibernate. Fortunately, however, there are also helpful people who take in weakened animals, nurse them up, treat them for parasites and diseases and provide them with a place to spend the winter.
We also work with such hedgehog helpers and provide a hibernation house for collected hedgehogs, thus actively protecting the species.
Our
winter guests
2025: Nemo (left)
and Susi (right)
® Stefan Hintsche 2025