When we think about helping hedgehogs in our gardens, most people immediately jump to food—meaty cat food or small dog biscuits. While nutrition is important, we often overlook the most basic necessity of all: fresh, clean water. By the time June rolls around, the weather can get surprisingly warm and dry, and for a nocturnal mammal that spends its night scurrying over miles of dry ground, dehydration becomes a very real and dangerous threat.

Hedgehogs do not have an endless supply of water sources in the modern landscape. They rely on dew, puddles, and occasional ponds, but when a heatwave hits or a dry spell lingers, these natural options evaporate quickly. A dehydrated hedgehog is a vulnerable one; it will struggle to digest its food, find energy to forage, or even stay alert enough to avoid predators. Placing a shallow dish of water in a quiet, shaded corner of your garden is one of the easiest, yet most impactful, acts of kindness you can offer these prickly visitors.

If you choose to put out a dish, ensure it is shallow—a plant saucer or a sturdy, low-sided bowl works perfectly. It is also a smart idea to place a few large pebbles or marbles in the bottom. This ensures that if a smaller creature, like a beetle or a frog, accidentally falls in, they have a way to climb back out. Change the water daily to keep it fresh and free of debris, as hedgehogs aren’t exactly known for their table manners and will often kick dirt into their bowls. This simple, consistent habit ensures that when your local hogs wake up from their daytime slumber, they have a reliable place to rehydrate before setting off on their nightly journey. It is a tiny effort on your part, but it makes a massive difference to their survival.