1. **Increased Feeding**: Before hibernation, hedgehogs will increase their food intake to build up fat reserves. This is crucial as they rely on these fat stores for energy during hibernation when they do not eat.
2. **Finding a Suitable Shelter**: Hedgehogs will seek out a safe, warm place to hibernate. This could be a burrow they dig themselves, a pile of leaves, or a sheltered area in your garden. They look for spots that are insulated and protected from the elements.
3. **Creating a Nest**: Once they find a suitable location, hedgehogs will create a nest by gathering leaves, grass, and other materials to line their shelter. This helps to keep them warm and cozy during their long sleep.
4. **Lowering Metabolic Rate**: As hibernation approaches, a hedgehog's body begins to lower its metabolic rate, which allows it to conserve energy. Their heart rate and breathing slow down significantly, and they enter a state of torpor, which is a lighter form of hibernation.
5. **Monitoring Weather Conditions**: Hedgehogs are sensitive to changes in the weather. If there is a warm spell, they might wake up briefly to forage for food, but they will return to hibernation when it gets cold again.
It's important for pet owners to be aware of these behaviors, especially if they have hedgehogs as pets. If your pet hedgehog is showing signs of wanting to hibernate, ensure they have a warm, comfortable space to do so, and monitor their health throughout the process.
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