Hi HampshireHedgehogs
Do you know if the hedgehog is actually going out at night?
It seems unlikely that it is trying to hibernate in there – they normally build a fairly substantial hibernating nest. But hogs do sometimes decide to sleep in feeding boxes. They do tend to poo around their feeding areas, especially if there is more than one visiting. But what you’re describing does sound slightly odd i.e. they don’t normally poo in their actual nests (although never say never!) and this hog box’s use sounds as if it’s become slightly ambiguous!
If you are worried about the hog you can get contact details of your nearest carer from BHPS 01584 890801. It might be worth having a chat with them. It’s very difficult to get the full picture on here, i.e. you can explain more fully and answer any questions they might have immediately.
You might like to provide another box specifically aimed towards nesting. You never know the hog might move in there (assuming that any carer you may have spoken to has said they think it sounds ok). If you do have a new hog house, put a small amount of bedding inside and provide lots more nearby so that the hog can take in what it chooses to build it’s nest. Long grasses and medium sized leaves are ideal nesting material for them.
I think I would be inclined to try that way round first and hope the hog moves out so you can clean the feed box out properly. But that would be on the assumption that it is actually going out at night to be able to find the other box!
