Hi Leon
If you are interested in finding out more about wild hedgehogs hibernating, as opposed to those in captivity, I recommend Pat Morris’ book ‘Hedgehogs’. There is a wealth of really interesting information about hogs. One thing is that many hedgehogs ‘wake up’ during hibernation time and sometimes actually build new hibernation nests, even though some may have built more than one nest in the first place.
Hedgehogs in captivity don’t always behave in the same way. In the wild it is more likely that hogs nesting together are youngsters and likewise, I have seen a youngster sneaking into a nest box where an adult hog was already sleeping. On that occasion it was for a short stay, though. There are, though, exceptions to every rule and some hogs may choose to demonstrate their individuality.
If nothing else, leaving water available all day, every day, all year, is very important in case any hogs come along.
