Hedgehog in the Leaves (gouache style)

The hedgehog is Britain's only spiny mammal, covered in thousands of spines that are modified hairs, and it rolls into a tight ball when threatened. Hedgehogs are mostly nocturnal and travel a long way each night, often a kilometre or more, foraging for beetles, caterpillars and earthworms. They've declined sharply in the British countryside over recent decades, which is why gardens have become so important for them.

Cut a hole about 13cm square at the base of fences and walls so hedgehogs can move between gardens. Leave piles of leaves and logs in a quiet corner, and they may build a winter nest there: hibernation usually runs from around November to March. Put out meaty cat or dog food and a dish of water, but never milk or bread. Check compost heaps before forking them, check bonfire piles before lighting, and look through long grass before mowing or strimming.

A hedgehog sits in fallen autumn leaves, with windfall apples and red toadstools around it. It's the time before hibernation, when hedgehogs feed hard to build up reserves. The leaves on the ground are the very material a hedgehog gathers for its winter nest, so the moment shows both the season and the shelter it needs.