Building up fat reserves
Autumn marks the start of „fattening up“ for hedgehogs: within a few weeks they have to build enough fat reserves to get safely through hibernation. Right now, every gram counts for them.
Why every gram counts now
During hibernation, hedgehogs live for several months on their own fat reserves alone. Any hedgehog that goes into hibernation too light risks not surviving it.
As a guide: a hedgehog should weigh at least 500–700 g in late autumn to get safely through the winter. At the same time, the natural supply of food in the garden is becoming increasingly scarce.
How to tell that a hedgehog is too light
Not every hedgehog in the garden needs support — but there are particular signs to keep an eye on in autumn.
⚠️ Warning signs: clearly underweight for the time of year, active during the day instead of at night, visibly protruding ribs or hip bones, unusually slow or unsteady movements.
How to support the fattening up
An energy-rich, natural food helps hedgehogs build the reserves they need for hibernation in a short space of time.
A complete feed based on the black soldier fly larva — energy-rich and easy to digest.
A balanced ratio supports bone structure and metabolism on top of pure energy intake.
💚 Always put out fresh water as well — in a dry autumn in particular, that is often just as important for hedgehogs as the food itself.
Hedgehog food compared
Not every food is suited to the short, intensive fattening-up phase in autumn.
Note: EntoZoo hedgehog food is a complete feed — keep cool once opened and use within a few days.
Getting the feeding right
In autumn you can feed a little more generously than in summer — the hedgehog needs energy quickly now.
In autumn every gram counts for hedgehogs: an energy-rich food made for hedgehogs supports them naturally in building the fat reserves they need.
Watch for warning signs such as low weight or daytime activity and feed in a targeted way where needed.
Discover hedgehog food →EntoZoo hedgehog food in a jar
This week with code HERBST15. Currently available in the shop as a 170 g jar. Delivery time 2–3 working days.
170 g
Black soldier fly larva, free from additives
€2.99€2.54
with code HERBST15
- Developed with Igelfreunde e.V.
- Refrigerate once opened
- Shipped from Bremen
Offer valid in week 36 of 2026. Price incl. VAT, while stocks last. Enter the discount code at checkout — please set it up in the shop before dispatch.
Nutritional values per 100 g
As per the product description in the shop.
Energy
Protein
Water
Fat
Further values: crude fibre 2.62%, crude ash 2.03%, calcium 0.235%, phosphorus 0.295%. Complete feed — store cool once opened and use within a few days.
Frequently asked questions
The key points about hedgehogs in autumn and feeding them correctly.
How much should a hedgehog weigh before hibernation?
How much hedgehog food should I offer each day?
Do I have to refrigerate the food?
Should I put out water too?
How quickly is it delivered?
Give hedgehogs the energy for hibernation now — entirely naturally.
Try EntoZoo hedgehog food this week for €2.54 instead of €2.99 (code HERBST15). Questions about feeding? Get in touch — we are glad to advise you.
Order now — code HERBST15