Build a Hedgehog House with Bricks: A Step-by-Step Guide

Transforming a simple stack of bricks into a cozy hedgehog habitat is not only a rewarding DIY project but also a wonderful way to contribute to your local wildlife. By providing a safe and warm shelter, you're helping these charming creatures thrive in your garden. So, let's dive into the step-by-step guide on how to build a hedgehog house with bricks.

Before you start, ensure you have the right materials and tools. You'll need bricks, mortar, a trowel, a spirit level, a tape measure, and some sand to mix with your mortar. Additionally, you'll need a few small stones or pebbles to create a drainage layer inside the house.

Planning and Design

Hedgehogs prefer a snug, dry, and well-ventilated home. Therefore, your brick house should be elevated off the ground, have a slanted roof for rainwater runoff, and include ventilation holes. A simple rectangular or square design with an entrance on one side should suffice.

Measure your bricks to determine the size of your house. A typical hedgehog house should be around 20cm x 20cm x 25cm (internal dimensions). However, you can adjust these measurements based on the bricks you have and the size of your garden.

Gathering Materials

Collect your bricks, ensuring they are all of a similar size and shape. You'll need enough to build your house to the desired dimensions, plus a few extra for mistakes or adjustments. Also, gather your mortar, sand, and other tools. Don't forget the small stones or pebbles for drainage.

If you're using reclaimed or old bricks, make sure to clean them thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or potential hazards for the hedgehogs. Also, check for any cracks or damage that could compromise the structure of your house.

Preparing the Mortar

Mix your mortar according to the manufacturer's instructions, typically a 3:1 ratio of sand to cement. Ensure the mixture is smooth and workable but not too sloppy. If it's too dry, add a little water; if it's too wet, add more sand.

Before you start laying bricks, prepare a small pile of mortar for each course (layer) you'll lay. This will make the process faster and more efficient. Also, have a bucket of water nearby to keep your trowel clean.

Building the Hedgehog House

Start by laying out a flat, level base for your house. This could be a piece of hardcore or a slab of concrete. Ensure it's stable and level to prevent your house from wobbling or leaning.

Using your trowel, spread a layer of mortar onto the base, creating a 'bed' for your first course of bricks. Ensure the mortar is evenly spread and about 1cm thick. Then, carefully place your first brick onto the mortar, pressing down firmly and checking it's level with your spirit level.

Laying the Bricks

Lay your bricks in courses, staggering the joints to create a strong bond. Use your trowel to spread mortar onto the bed of the previous course, then lay the next brick, pressing it firmly into the mortar and checking it's level. Continue this process until you've reached the desired height of your house, usually around 25cm.

As you lay each course, ensure the walls are plumb (vertical) and the house remains square. Use your spirit level to check the walls, and use a tape measure to check the diagonals are equal. If necessary, tap the bricks gently with a rubber mallet to adjust them.

Creating the Roof

Once your walls are complete, you can start building the roof. Lay bricks across the top of the walls, staggering the joints and creating a slant to allow rainwater to run off. You can create a simple pitched roof or a more complex design, depending on your preference and the size of your bricks.

Ensure the roof is well-ventilated to prevent condensation from building up inside the house. You can do this by leaving small gaps between the bricks or creating purposeful ventilation holes. Also, ensure the roof overhangs slightly to protect the entrance from rain.

Creating the Entrance

Leave an opening on one side of your house for the hedgehogs to enter and exit. This should be around 13cm x 13cm, large enough for a hedgehog to pass through but small enough to keep predators out.

You can create this opening as you lay the bricks, or you can cut it out later using a brick saw or a masonry blade on a power tool. If you choose to cut it out, be careful not to damage the surrounding bricks or compromise the structure of your house.

Finishing Touches

Once your house is built, allow the mortar to cure for at least 24 hours before moving it into position. This will ensure the mortar is strong and the house is stable.

Before placing your house in your garden, create a small pile of dry, leafy material inside to attract hedgehogs. This could be straw, dry leaves, or hay. Also, place a layer of small stones or pebbles inside to create a drainage layer, keeping the house dry and comfortable.

Position your hedgehog house in a quiet, shady spot in your garden, near to hedges or bushes for the hedgehogs to forage in. Then, sit back and wait for your new tenants to move in. With a little patience and care, you could soon be providing a safe home for hedgehogs in your garden.