Wild animals in hibernation: How to protect their retreats!

Wild animals in hibernation: How to protect their retreats!

Autumn has arrived in the last few days and not only brings colorful leaves, but also the sign of the coming winter months. As we prepare for the cold season, the wild animals around us are also intensively preparing for winter. The lower nature conservation authority at the Günzburg district office warns the population about the danger to these animals and appeals to everyone to respect their needs. The Augsburger Allgemeine informs that many species, including hedgehogs, bats, dormice and amphibians, look for safe hiding places to hibernate or hibernate.

What are the differences? Hedgehogs, dormice and bats are among the hibernators who significantly lower their body temperature and adopt an energy-saving mode. Bats also wake up from time to time and change their sleeping place if necessary. In contrast, squirrels hibernate but remain active at times. Amphibians and reptiles, on the other hand, go into cold paralysis. During this time as temperatures drop, it is crucial for wildlife to build up additional fat reserves and find protected shelter.

Retreats for wildlife

Did you know that gardens and hedges provide ideal retreats for wild animals? Compost heaps, woodpiles and old buildings are particularly popular. But caution is advised here: leaf vacuums and blowers can destroy these retreats and cause serious harm to small animals. Clearing away leaves is not only harmful to the little residents, but also deprives them of their hiding places. Construction work and closing entrances to winter quarters should be avoided, especially in the cold season.

• Ergänzende Tipps für eine tierfreundliche Gartenpflege:
• Laub- und Reisighaufen sowie Totholz nicht entfernen.
• Komposthaufen und Holzstapel unberührt lassen.
• Kellerschächte und Dachböden während des Winters nicht stören.
• Verblühte Stauden für Vögel und Insekten stehen lassen.
• Intensive Rückschnitte und Laubräumen bei Frost vermeiden.

A natural garden not only helps protect local wildlife from the cold, but also offers diversity and habitat during the colder season. According to Nature Conservation.ch Many wild animals such as treecreepers are able to group together in roosting communities to protect each other. They lower their body temperature and metabolism to save energy - a smart move!

But it's not just the animal world that has to adapt. People are also urged to be considerate and enjoy the winter months in nature without disturbing the fleeting habitats. If we live in harmony with our environment, everyone benefits – people and animals.