What’s a hibernaculum I hear you ask…..it is a warm, dry, safe place for reptiles and amphibians to hibernate over the winter. The word ‘hibernaculum’ means “winter quarter”, with the Latin word hibernus meaning “winter”.

Here in Shetland the Common Frog is our only amphibian, but they are plentiful. They hibernate over the winter in underground holes to avoid the cold and frost, their heart and breathing rate slow right down and they no longer need to find food.

By creating a hibernaculum in your garden, you are providing the perfect place for frogs to hibernate whilst making space for nature and encouraging more wildlife into your garden.

Download the Hibernaculum leaflet to find out how to get started.